Kenya's vice-captain Thomas Odoyo scored his first century in a one day international on Thursday to set up a four-wicket victory against Canada in the first ODI match at the Nairobi Gymkhana club.
The Canadians, beaten by nine wickets in the four-dayer Intercontinental Cup tie at the weekend, had posted 230 with a half-century from the impressive 36-year old rookie Arvind Kandappah.
In reply, Kenya at 49-5, appeared to have lost it all before Odoyo turned the game on its head with his now-familiar stroke play, hitting 11 fours for his 111 off 113 balls to clinch victory.
It was the second century for the 32-year-old ICC Associate Player of the Year who also attained his maiden first-class hundred during the four-dayer.
Odoyo capitalised on two major partnerships with 19-year-old Alex Obanda putting a 86-stand for the sixth wicket and Jimmy Kamande (37 n/o) to achieve the target in the 48th over.
Left-arm pacer Umar Bhatti was the pick of the Canadian bowlers taking three for 19 in his 10 overs.
The second match is scheduled for Saturday.
