Uganda emerged victorious over Kenya via seven wickets, to finish top (16 points) after the second round of the Cricket World Cup Challenge League B.
The Cricket Cranes were inspired by Simon Ssesazi (87 runs) and Cosmas Kyewuta ( three wickets) to cheer up the Lugogo crowd on Sunday, in what was also the last game for Uganda in this round.
Ronak Patel also bagged a half century in a game that saw Uganda’s opening batsmen push through the first 10 overs thanks to Captain Brian Masaba who got 22 runs off 34 balls.
Ssesazi shared an unbeaten 90-run partnership with Dinesh Nakrani as Uganda successfully surpassed Kenya’s 220 with 29 balls to spare.
The win was courtesy of discipline with the ball and patience with the bat for the victory that washed away past near misses against Kenya.
The game’s highlight that got fans off their feet was from veteran Frank Nsubuga who pulled off a magnificent catch.
Just like a Crane (read the bird) he flew, caught the ball and majestically landed before racing off in jubilant celebrations.
Coach Laurence Mahatlane will now shift focus to preparations for the third round in Jersey due July/August.
If Uganda maintain their lead at the top after the third round, they will not only attain an ODI status but also progress to another level of qualifier for the 2023 World Cup in India.
