Opinion is divided over the shock return of veteran all-rounder Lameck Onyango to the national cricket team for the Oman assignment. 

At 46, the player, who last represented Kenya in 2009 has been called back with selectors terming his impressive statistics with his club Swamibapa and his calmness and experience as the reason behind their decision. 

However, that has not gone down with some who feel younger players should have been given an opportunity instead. 

Former head coach and Kenyan international Thomas Odoyo is one of those against the decision to bring Onyango back, blaming selectors for not adhering to the Development Programme .

“ICC gives us money to develop the game. It therefore means we have failed in every aspect of our mandate if then we have to go the route we have now. We are selecting someone who is meant to be a mentor or guide as opposed to younger boys who need exposure,” he told People Sport on phone yesterday. Onyango’s critics also feel he might have lost pace given the game has changed since he last featured for Kenya 10 years ago.

The player, however, believes he still has what it takes and is looking forward to the forthcoming World Cricket League Division Three qualifiers that will run from December 2-13.

“The selectors did their job right and I earned my spot. I have been consistent in the domestic league and I think I have it in me to do duty for the national team. My work is basically to offer support so that we can focus on improving our standards. I will do my bit because it is a team effort and we should not only focus on me or my age but what I can offer,” said Onyango. 

Onyango has also received the backing of team manager Edward Odumbe who says the player was selected based on his performance. “Apart from his experience, the numbers definitely work for him. At this stage and in a very important tournament, we need our best. Some of the complainants have hardly delivered,” he said.

Onyango joins other veterans Collins Obuya (38) and Jadavji Bhimji (37) in the squad that will be handled by Wynand De Rider and David Obuya in the absence of Maurice Odumbe.