Former half marathon world record holder Kibiwott Kandie has set his sights on a maiden World Cross Country title this Saturday in Bathurst, Australia.

Kandie who was appointed Team Kenya captain will compete in the men’s 10km senior event where they will be looking to reclaim the title Kenya lost in 2019 to Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei.

Nevertheless, the 26-year-old says he is under no pressure despite much expectation bestowed on the team ahead of Saturday’s event.

"I am honoured to be named as the team captain. I am also very happy to be part of this team, I think it is the best team ever and I can assure Kenyans to expect the best performance on Saturday.

"Personally, I will be competing for the first time in a world cross country championship and I am really excited about the challenge that lies ahead. I know it won't be easy but we are ready for the battle," Kandie said.

Kandie said he has returned to his best form after battling a series of injuries that hampered his campaign last year.

"As an athlete you are always prone to challenges and injury is one of them. I struggled last year but I am glad that I am now fine and it is my prayer I will remain healthy this season," he said.

Kandie will team up with two-time world champion Geoffrey Kamworor, Sebastian Kimaru, Emmanuel Kiprop, Daniel Simiu and Nicholas Kimeli.

"We have discussed a lot on how we will work as a team because apart from the individual titles we are also going for the team title. We have done a lot in training and it now time to show it in Bathurst," added Kandie.