Victory or bust for Kenya

Rageb Aga, Kenya's stand-in captain, has warned that nothing less than victory will do, as they prepare for their Intercontinental Cup semi-final clash against Scotland, which begins in the United Arab Emirates on November 17.

"It is vital for the future of Kenya cricket," said Aga, 20, who has been handed the captaincy in place of Hitesh Modi, who is getting married in London on the final day of the match. "It is important that Kenya shows its potential and does well. The bigger picture for Kenya is attaining Test status and winning this tournament will be a stepping-stone towards achieving this goal."

Kenya's preparations have been clouded in controversy, with several of the country's leading players going on strike after a pay dispute with the Kenyan Cricket Association. But Aga is eager to put the unrest to one side. "We have a blend of youthful exuberance and experience," he said of his squad. "We are a team willing to take up any challenge and a team willing to work for each other."

Kenya's match against Scotland takes place at Abu Dhabi, while the other semi-final, Canada against UAE, is being held at Sharjah. The final will take place at Sharjah from November 21.