The Cricket Cranes began their ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B Second Round campaign on a high note with a dominant 52-run victory over Bahrain at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground.
Uganda’s comprehensive performance in both batting and bowling showcased their intent to make a mark in the 50 Over despite Bahrain winning the toss and opting to Field.
Without spinners Henry Ssenyondo, Frank Nsubuga and keeper Cyrus Kakuru, all eyes were set on pace ballers; Juma Miyaji, Cosmas Kyewuta and Bilal Hassun who delivered on the day.
Uganda’s Solid Batting Foundation
Batting first, Uganda posted a challenging total of 249/9 in their allotted 50 overs. The innings was anchored by Raghav Dhawan, whose composed knock of 85 runs off 105 balls was the standout performance of the day.
Dhawan’s innings included 11 well-timed boundaries, helping to stabilize the Cricket Cranes after an early loss of wickets.
Captain Riazat Ali Shah supported Dhawan with a valuable 49 runs, providing stability to the middle order.
Opening batsman Robinson Obuya also contributed a solid 43 runs, ensuring Uganda remained on track to set a competitive total.
The middle and lower order added crucial runs to propel Uganda past 240. Alpesh Ramjani finished unbeaten on 20, while Fred Achelam added 17 runs to the tally.
Their late contributions ensured that Uganda posted a total that would challenge Bahrain’s batting lineup.
Bahrain’s Struggles in the Chase
Bahrain’s chase got off to a disastrous start, thanks to a devastating spell from Juma Miyagi. Miyagi was in sensational form, taking 4 wickets for 53 runs.
He struck early, dismissing opener Rishabh Ramesh for a duck and followed up by sending Shahbaz Badar back to the pavilion without scoring.
Bahrain’s top order was in disarray, and it seemed like the chase was slipping away. However, Asif Ali stood tall, battling against the onslaught of Uganda’s bowlers.
Ali played an impressive knock of 83 runs off 92 balls, which included 8 boundaries and 4 sixes. Despite his valiant effort, Ali lacked the necessary support from the other end.
Sohail Ahmed (43 runs off 86 balls) showed some resilience and tried to steady the innings, but Uganda’s bowlers were unyielding.
Miyagi’s early breakthroughs were supported well by Cosmas Kyewuta (2/26) and Bilal Hassan (2/42), who made key contributions to dismantling Bahrain’s batting.
Dinesh Nakrani also chipped in with a wicket, as Uganda wrapped up Bahrain’s innings for 197 runs in just 44.1 overs to seal the 52-run victory.
A Strong Start for Uganda
With this win, the Cricket Cranes have set a positive tone for their Challenge League B campaign.
The balanced performance from the team, highlighted by Dhawan’s batting, Miyagi’s brilliant bowling, and solid contributions from the entire lineup, will give Uganda the confidence they need as they move forward in the competition.
Uganda will now look to maintain their momentum as they face Singapore in their next match on Monday, 10th February, at 4 am.
