Kenyan all-rounder Collins Obuya has decided to retire from international cricket after a 23-year career.
His journey culminated in a bronze medal match against Uganda at the Achimota Senior Secondary School A Field in Accra, Ghana on 23 March 2024.
Unfortunately, Kenya faced defeat in the bronze medal match, losing to Uganda by 106 runs.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe emerged victorious to clinch the championship by easily defeating Namibia to seal an eight-wicket win in the final.
Obuya’s journey in international cricket began with his ODI debut against the West Indies in Nairobi on 15 August 2001.
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He etched his name with 27 runs in his debut innings, coupled with a disciplined bowling spell of 5 overs and 25 runs, although he remained wicketless. His last appearance in one-day internationals was against Scotland in Christchurch on 30 January 2014.
A memorable chapter in Obuya’s career unfolded during the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup where he played a key role in Kenya’s run to the semi-finals. Despite losing to India by 91 runs in the semi-final encounter at the Kingsmead in Durban, Obuya’s standout performance, particularly his spell of 5 for 24 against Lanka, showcased his prowess with the ball.
In the limited over format, Obuya’s contribution with both bat and ball remained remarkable. Amassing 2044 runs from 104 ODIs, including 11 half-centuries, his highest score of 98 not out against Australia in 2011 remains etched in the memory. Additionally, his bowling prowess saw him take 35 wickets in ODIs, with best figures of 5 for 24.
Obuya’s impact has been equally impressive in the transition to the T20I arena. He made his debut against Bangladesh on 1 September 2007 and carved a niche for himself with 1794 runs from 76 matches, accompanied by 10 half-centuries and a top score of 96 not out.
His bowling in the T20Is also proved valuable, taking 25 wickets from 76 matches, including best figures of 4 for 27.
Despite Kenya’s efforts to make it big in subsequent world events after the inaugural World T20 in 2007, Obuya’s contribution has remained a shining beacon in the history of Kenyan cricket.