Kenyan all-rounder Collins Obuya has decided to bid adieu to international cricket after a 23-year long career.
His journey culminated in the bronze medal game against Uganda at the Achimota Senior Secondary School A Field in Accra, Ghana, on March 23, 2024.
Sadly, Kenya faced a defeat in the bronze medal match, succumbing to Uganda by 106 runs.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe emerged victorious, clinching the championship title by defeating Namibia with ease, securing an eight-wicket win in the finals.
Obuya's voyage in international cricket began with his ODI debut against the West Indies in Nairobi on August 15, 2001.
He etched his name with 27 runs in his debut innings, coupled with a disciplined bowling spell of 5 overs conceding 25 runs, although he remained wicketless. His final appearance in one-day internationals was against Scotland in Christchurch on January 30, 2014.
A memorable chapter in Obuya's career unfolded during the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in Kenya's journey to the semi-finals. Despite losing to India by 91 runs in the semi-final clash at Kingsmead, Durban, Obuya's exceptional performance, especially his spell of 5 for 24 against Lanka, showcased his prowess with the ball.
In the limited-overs format, Obuya's contribution with both bat and ball remained noteworthy. Amassing 2044 runs from 104 ODIs, including 11 half-centuries, his highest score of 98 not out against Australia in 2011 remains etched in memory. Additionally, his bowling prowess fetched him 35 wickets in ODIs, with the best figures of 5 for 24.
Transitioning to the T20I arena, Obuya's impact was equally impressive. Debuting against Bangladesh on September 1, 2007, he 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 T20Is also proved valuable, claiming 25 wickets from 76 matches, including the best figures of 4 for 27.
Despite Kenya's struggle to make a mark in subsequent world events after the inaugural World T20 in 2007, Obuya's contribution remained a shining beacon in Kenyan cricket history.
