Obiri, bidding to add the Commonwealth title to the Worlds bronze she won last year in Moscow went out first and romped to victory in 4:04.43, the fastest of the semis, to stay on course to retain the title won by Nancy Jebet Langat in Delhi four years ago.
She will have a fight on her hands to stop the former World Junior titleholder, Chepng’etich, who laid the hammer down to take the second semi in 4:05.79.
The illustrious pair will be joined by teammate Selah Busienei who clocked 4:08.85 for fourth in the second heat as Kenya retains the hopes of a podium sweep in Tuesday’s finals.
Defending Commonwealth champion, Mark Mutai, saw his defence collapse at the first hurdle when he could only muster a fourth finish in his heat after running 47.60.
Also crashing out was debutant Solomon Mbwoga (47.98) after slumping to fifth with national champion, Benson Mucheru, failing to show up for the start as Kenya surrendered the lap title won by Mutai in Delhi.
More to follow.
Read more here Capital Sports