Kenya defeat Ireland to earn World Cup spot

Cricket:An unbeaten fifth-wicket stand of 114 between Collins Obuya and Thomas Odoyo helped Kenya to a six-wicket victory over Ireland in Pretoria to secure their place at the 2011 World Cup.

With qualification already secure, Ireland coach Phil Simmons rested some of his front-line players, with four changes from Wednesday’s victory over the Netherlands.

Niall O’Brien top-scored with 59, while John Mooney hit 34 from 27 deliveries down the order as Ireland made 208 for nine from their 50 overs.

Two wickets from left-arm spinner Regan West reduced Kenya to 96 for four in reply, before Obuya (66 not out) and Odoyo (50 not out) joined in their match-winning partnership.

Despite the loss, Ireland finished the Super Eights stage on top of the table after the Netherlands beat Canada by four wickets, with both sides clinching spots in the World Cup. Ireland will now play Canada in Sunday’s final at Centurion.

Scotland missed out on a World Cup spot, although their 122-run victory over the UAE ensures them One Day International status for the next four years.

Afghanistan’s meteoric rise up the ladder of world cricket continued as they qualified for both ODI and Intercontinental status after a 22-run win over Namibia.

Meanwhile, the International Cricket Council announced this afternoon that they are moving 2011 World Cup matches away from Pakistan due to the “uncertain political situation” in the country.

ICC president David Morgan said: “It is a regrettable decision. Our number one priority is to create certainty and deliver a safe, secure and successful event.”

The Pakistan Cricket Board, who were due to host matches alongside India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, have refused to comment, saying they are yet to receive official notice.

Score
Ireland 208-9 (50 ovs)(N O'Brien 59, J Mooney 34, A White 25; S Tikolo 3-11, N Odhiambo 2-32), Kenya 209-4(48 ovs) (C Obuya 66no, T Odoyo 50no, K Obuya 31; R West 2-40). Kenya won by 6 wkts.