With the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B just two days away, the Uganda Cricket Association (UCA) Selection Committee has made a strategic change to the national squad.
Young spinner Joseph Baguma has been replaced by seasoned paceman Bilal Hassun due to Hong Kong’s conditions, which are expected to favour pace over spin.
UCA’s Chairman of Selectors, Nehal Bibodi, stated that after assessing the local weather and playing conditions, it was clear that pace would be more effective than spin.
Therefore Baguma, who was informed by Coach Abhay Sharma and Team Manager Charles Waiswa, accepted the decision.
The Cricket Cranes, who have been in Hong Kong since January 25 for acclimatization and a Tri-Series with Bahrain and Hong Kong-China, finished as runners-up, losing to Hong Kong-China in the final.
With the Pace ballers taking centre stage, 34-year-old pacer Hassun has been added to the fray and will be tasked to demonstrate his growth since his last appearance with the team during the T20 World Cup.
The baller who has recently showcased his pace, line, and length for his Kenyan side, Kanbis completed a fitness test on Monday, Hassun will join the team ahead of the competition.
The Cricket Cranes hope his inclusion will strengthen their chances of qualifying for the next phase of the tournament, while aiming for a place in the 2027 ICC World Cup in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.
