Injured Taylor propels Kiwis to big score against Kenya

GROS ISLET, St Lucia, Mar 20 (Reuters) Ross Taylor hit a half-century before being struck down with a hamstring strain in New Zealand's 331 for seven against Kenya in a World Cup Group C match today.

Craig McMillan struck five sixes in his 71 to help the Kiwis post the highest World Cup total at this ground while Scott Styris, who hammered 87 not out in the win over England on Friday, was dropped twice but made 63 off 62 balls.

New Zealand, who will qualify for the Super Eights with a victory, were put into bat on a slightly damp morning in front of a paltry crowd at the Beausejour Cricket Ground, which was later swelled by school children.

Taylor played a patient knock before pulling up in the 32nd over and calling for a runner. He only lasted two more overs before being caught and bowled by Kenya captain Steve Tikolo for 85, two balls after smashing him for six.

The 23-year-old was fortunate to reach his third one-day fifty after Tanmay Mishra failed to cling on to a difficult chance infront of square in the fourth over. Taylor also survived a close run-out with Mishra again the fielder.

The innings had started poorly with opener Lou Vincent out for a second successive nought in the fourth ball of the day but captain Stephen Fleming steadied matters before running himself out on 60.

The Kiwis dispensed with their twin spin bowling attack, Jeetan Patel making way for paceman Michael Mason.

Kenya, whose bowling was wayward, also made one change with Lameck Onyango coming in for bowler Nehemiah Odhiambo.

A victory for Kenya would make Group C extremely complex with the Africans facing England in the last group game on Saturday.

Reuters PDS GC2313