After two heavy defeats in the first two ODIs in Mombasa, Kenya would have been hoping that a change of scenery to Nairobi would see a change in their fortunes. And whilst they did improve, it wasn't quite enough.

In the third ODI on Saturday, Kenya elected to bat after winning the toss. Their innings got off to the worst possible start when they lost Seren Waters from the opening delivery. Alex Obanda made 49, but the only other batsman to capitalise on a start was Collins Obuya, who scored 55.

Graeme Cremer was the pick of the Zimbabwean bowlers with a career best 4/39 as Kenya were bowled out for 234, three balls short of their full quota.

In reply, Zimbabwe started poorly, being reduced to 68/4. But the fourth wicket falling brought danger-man Elton Chigumbura to the crease. He put on 35 for the fifth wicket with Keith Dabengwa and then put on 47 for with his captain Prosper Utseya before being dismissed for a relatively sedate 43 from 50 balls.

With the score on 150/6, Kenya were still in with a chance, but Utseya and Forster Mutizwa took the game away from them. Utseya scored 68 whilst Mutizwa made 38, as Zimbabwe didn't lose another wicket. They reached their target in the 49th over, winning by four wickets.

In Sunday's fourth ODI, Zimbabwe batted first, and Kenya had them on the ropes at 168/6. But as on Saturday, Utseya and Mutizwa put together a substantial partnership, scoring 107 for the seventh wicket, helping Zimbabwe to a score of 285/8 from their 50 overs.

In reply, Alex Obanda made a fine unbeaten 96, but nobody could stay with him as Kenya were bowled out for 219 in 49 overs, losing by 66 runs. Elton Chigumbura was the pick of the bowlers with 4/28.

The fifth and final ODI will take place on Wednesday, also at the Gymkhana Club in Nairobi.