Kenya opens up Pool 'B'

Kenya's shock victory over Sri Lanka in Nairobi has thrown Pool 'B' into a tizzy.

Before the World Cup began a little over two weeks ago, Pool 'A', which has India, Pakistan, Australia and England, was seen to be the pool of death. But after 27 matches, it is Pool 'B' that has thrown up all the surprises.

First, West Indies toppled the tournament co-favourites, South Africa. Then New Zealand beat South Africa using the help of M/s Duckworth and Lewis in a rain-marred match. And now Kenya, who shocked West Indies in the 1996 World Cup, in Pune, has tripped Sri Lanka on its winning run in the preliminaries.

To be sure, Sri Lanka still head the pool with 12 points, but they are now joined by Kenya at the top of the table who too have 12 points from four matches. Kenya play Bangladesh and a victory there will take the tally to 16 points, and a possible berth in the Super Six stage of the tournament. 

Sri Lanka's seemingly smooth ride to the top of the pool has now been halted. They can still go into the Super Six but need to win at least one of their next two matches. If Sri Lanka beat West Indies and lose to South Africa, South Africa, Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Kenya will be tied at 16 points each. Then, South Africa and Kenya would progress, having beaten two of the three other teams.