Kenya had made the semi-final in 2003 thanks to a lot of non-cricketing reasons but this time around, there is no scope or reason for controversy and Kenya has shown that they are good enough to challenge the best in the World.

The nature in which they dug themselves out of a potentially dangerous situation against Canada (52 for 2), thanks to the reliable and now experienced captain Steve Tikolo’s 72. An innings of great responsibility and character, it wasn’t too slow either. Scored off just 76 balls, Tikolo was always in command even with Maurice Ouma at the other end playing well.

But being captain hasn’t waned his enthusiasm and turned him into a slips-fielder! He still bowls with the same enthusiasm and had figures of 9-0-34-2 against Canada.

The Kenyans have had to face a lot of criticism of their efforts in 2003 but this time, they can realistically win two games with England and New Zealand both being a little unpredictable. To be honest, it won’t be entirely surprising to see Kenya overcome England! And Tikolo is the man they need to look up to for guidance.

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Kenya Captain and also Man of the Match- Steve Tikolo
On his individual performance
"It is important being a senior member of the team you try to lead from the front,"

On victory
"It's important to win the first game to get the momentum. I believe in my players." Canada face England on Sunday and clash with New Zealand on Tuesday, Tikolo told reporters

Canada captain, John Davison
On Canada's poor show
"Yeah it was pretty village, wasn't it?" It was pretty embarrassing at times. There weren't too many positives there for us."

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