The National Men’s Senior Cricket team, the Cricket Cranes has been flagged off to Namibia for the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup Qualifiers.
The tournament doesn’t start until 22nd November, but the team leaves early as they will make a stop in Zimbabwe for a 10-day preparatory camp against local club Takashinga.
Jackson Ogwang who took over the reigns as interim head coach after Laurence Mahatlane‘s contract elapsed will take charge of the team for the first time since his appointment in September.
The 35-year-old takes with him a 15-man squad that includes fan favourite Riazat Ali Shah, Dinesh Nakrani, and veteran Frank Nsubuga who missed out on Uganda’s previous international engagement.
“The team is ready to make Uganda proud! For the last three years, we have been preparing for this event, and we are certain something has to finally give,” Ogwang stated in a press release issued by UCA.
He added; “The focus might be on getting one over either Zimbabwe and Namibia, but as a team, every game is important and therefore the intensity we play with against Zimbabwe is the same energy we bring for Rwanda.
“We aim to take care of our business and fate will decide the rest but if we play to our potential we shall be at the World Cup”
Ogwang and his team will attempt to qualify for next year’s World Cup, but they will do so without the team’s opening bowlers Juma Miyaji and Cosmos Kyewuta. The two miss out due to injuries.
All-rounder and former U19 captain Pascal Murungi, spinner Siraje Nsubuga and opening batter Ronald Lutaya also miss out.
Aside from the hosts Namibia, Uganda will also compete against Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Nigeria and Zimbabwe for the two qualifying slots.
Uganda get their campaign underway against Tanzania on 22nd November 2023 at Wandererams Cricket Oval.
Courtesy Photos
