The Uganda Cricket Cranes have officially embarked on their journey to Hong Kong for the second round of the ICC Challenge League B tournament.
This Saturday morning, the team was flagged off at the Uganda Cricket Association headquarters in Lugogo, marking the start of their 50-over tri-series campaign against Hong Kong China and Bahrain.
The tournament will take place from January 28th to February 3rd, 2025, ahead of the much-anticipated ICC Challenge League B, set to begin on February 4th.
A Crucial Phase in the Challenge League B
This 50-over tri-series is an important part of the Cricket Cranes’ preparations for the upcoming ICC Challenge League B, where they will battle against teams from around the world with an eye on qualifying for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup.
The Challenge League B tournament is a pivotal pathway to the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
Uganda enters the tri-series in a strong position, having led Group B in the first round of the ICC Challenge League B, which was held in Uganda.
With 9 points, the Cricket Cranes currently top the standings, followed closely by Italy and Hong Kong China, both of whom have 7 points.
This first round, played at the Cricket Oval and Entebbe Oval, set the stage for a tense and competitive campaign that will continue in Hong Kong.
Opening Match Against Hong Kong
The Cricket Cranes’ 2025 tri-series campaign will kick off against the hosts, Hong Kong China, on January 28th, at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground.
This match is set to be a thrilling opener as Uganda seeks to maintain its momentum from the first round and strengthen its position at the top of the group.
The matchups against Hong Kong and Bahrain will be a valuable test for the Cricket Cranes as they continue their journey toward World Cup qualification.
The Squad: Talent and Experience
The Cricket Cranes have assembled a formidable squad for the tri-series and the Challenge League B tournament.
The full squad includes key players such as Raghav Dhawan, Juma Miyagi, Shrideep Mangela, Fred Achelam, Kenneth Waiswa, Alpesh Ramjani, and veteran Frank Nsubuga.
Other notable players include Henry Ssenyondo, Riazat Ali Shah, Cosmas Kyewuta, Robinson Obuya, Dinesh Nakrani, Joseph Baguma, and Cyrus Kakuru.
The team also has reserves in Bilal Hassun and Ronald Lutaya, ensuring depth and flexibility for the matches ahead.
The experience of the squad will be crucial as they face the challenges of competing on the global stage.
The combination of youth and seasoned professionals brings a balanced dynamic to the team, with the hopes of continuing Uganda’s strong performance in the competition.
Looking Ahead: The Path to the World Cup
The ICC Challenge League B provides Uganda with a significant opportunity to showcase their talent on the world stage.
With the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup on the horizon, the Cricket Cranes are focused on making their mark and securing a spot in the tournament.
Their performance in both the tri-series and the main Challenge League B will be key to their progress in the qualification process.
As the Cricket Cranes head into the 50-over tri-series in Hong Kong, all eyes will be on their performances as they look to solidify their position in the tournament standings.
With a blend of experience and young talent, the Cricket Cranes have the potential to make a real impact and take another step toward realizing their dream of World Cup qualification.
