Kenya’s Collins Obuya Retires from Cricket After 23-Year Career
Kenya’s veteran allrounder Collins Obuya has bid farewell to cricket after a remarkable 23-year career. The decision came following Kenya’s defeat to Uganda in the third-place play-off match at the African Games on Saturday.
“It’s been a big honor playing for Kenya,” Obuya said after the match. “I have decided to retire from the game after 23 years.”
Obuya, a legspinning allrounder, made his mark in international cricket with 104 ODIs for Kenya. He amassed 2044 runs and claimed 35 wickets, making him the third-highest run-scorer for Kenya in the format.
In T20Is, Obuya holds the distinction of being Kenya’s highest run-scorer with 1794 runs from 76 appearances. His contributions were pivotal in Kenya’s historic run to the 2003 World Cup semi-finals.
Obuya’s career-best bowling performance came against Sri Lanka in the 2003 World Cup, where he took 5 for 24 to help Kenya secure a famous victory. He finished the tournament with 13 wickets at an impressive average of 28.76.
In the 2011 World Cup, Obuya showcased his batting prowess with an unbeaten 98 against Australia, earning him the player-of-the-match award.
Obuya’s leadership qualities were recognized when he was appointed Kenya’s captain after the 2011 World Cup. However, he stepped down in 2013 after Kenya failed to qualify for the 2014 T20 World Cup.
Obuya’s retirement marks the end of an era for Kenyan cricket. His contributions to the sport have been immense, and he will be remembered as one of the country’s greatest players.