Uganda Cricket Association (UCA) has unveiled the Cricket Cranes squad set to compete in the second round of the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B scheduled for February 4-16 in Hong Kong, China.
This announcement has stirred discussion in cricket circles, especially due to the exclusion of former captain Brian Masaba and the continued sidelining of Simon Ssesazi.
After hosting the first round in November at Lugogo and Entebbe Oval, the Cricket Cranes are looking to build on their performances as they pursue a coveted pathway to the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, which will be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
Leadership and Team Composition
The squad will once again be captained by Riazat Ali Shah, whose leadership has been instrumental in fostering a balance between experience and young talent.
Head coach Abhay Sharma has retained several players from the first round while incorporating fresh energy to strengthen the team.
Pascal Murungi, a standout from the U-19 team, loses his spot while Shrideep Mangela and Raghav Dhawan are maintained.
Additionally, youngsters Cyrus Kakuru and Joseph Baguma have been called up, signalling a strategic focus on building for the future.
However, the absence of two prominent names; Former Captain Brian Masaba and Simon Ssesazi (last featured in the Africa Continent Cup) has raised questions.
The Exclusion of Brian Masaba and Simon Ssesazi
Brian Masaba, who has been a cornerstone of Ugandan cricket for years, has been omitted from the travelling squad.
While the exact reasons remain undisclosed, this decision marks a significant shift, as Masaba’s leadership and all-around abilities were crucial in the first round and previous team campaigns including the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Simon Ssesazi, known for his prowess as a wicketkeeper and top-order batter, remains on the sidelines, further highlighting the team’s pivot towards a new direction.
In their place, Ronald Lutaaya has been named as a reserve, joining Bilal Hassun.
The inclusion of Kakuru and Baguma underscores the Cricket Cranes’ commitment to grooming the next generation of stars.
The Road Ahead in Hong Kong
The tournament will see Uganda face off against teams like Singapore, Bahrain, Tanzania, Hong Kong, and Italy in a tightly packed schedule.
With each match critical, the blend of experienced campaigners like Dinesh Nakrani, Frank Nsubuga, and Alpesh Ramjani, alongside emerging talents, will be crucial to Uganda’s success.
Squad: Robinson Obuya, Shrideep Mangela, Raghav Dhawan, Joseph Baguma, Cyrus Kakuru, Kenneth Waiswa, Juma Miyaji, Riazat Ali Shah, Dinesh Nakrani, Alpesh Ramjani, Cosmas Kyewuta, Frank Nsubuga, Fred Achelam, Henry Ssenyondo
Reserves: Bilal Hassun, Ronald Lutaaya
Cricket Cranes’ Fixtures in Challenge League B
- Uganda vs Bahrain – 7th Feb
- Singapore vs Uganda – 10th Feb
- Uganda vs Italy – 12th Feb
- Uganda vs Hong Kong – 13th Feb
- Uganda vs Tanzania – 15th Feb
Building Momentum for 2027
With the Cricket Cranes at the top of the current League B table, they gear up for this pivotal Round action, holding onto high stakes.
The ICC Challenge League B is a stepping stone toward the World Cup, and each match will test Uganda’s adaptability and resilience.
Despite the absence of stalwarts like Masaba and Ssesazi, the team’s blend of experience and youthful energy could be a winning formula.
The journey to Hong Kong is not just about qualification but also about defining the next chapter of Ugandan cricket.
Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as the Cricket Cranes strive to leave a mark on the global stage.
