Uganda Cricket men’s national team players Juma Miyaji and Gerald Olipa have vowed to fully utilize the golden opportunity presented by the 2026 National Premier League (NPL) T20 Blast.
Already in Harare, Zimbabwe, Miyaji and Olipa will feature for Old Hararians and Takashinga Patriots 1, respectively. They join eight young players from four African Associate nations selected for the regional development initiative.
For Miyaji, it is an opportunity he intends to embrace fully. He couldn’t hide his excitement after learning of his selection following a training session.
“It’s an opportunity for me that I can’t take for granted because, out of so many, I was one of those they opted for, so I’m excited for the task ahead,” Miyaji said.
“It’s a big one because Zimbabwe is a major cricket nation. There will definitely be strong competition, which is great for my development, and I’m going to give my all to perform well.”
When asked about the opportunity to play on such a big stage at a young age, Olipa said he is ready to use the chance to improve his game.
“I think it’s a big opportunity for me to showcase my skills at a major event, and it’s also a big chance to develop my game both mentally and physically,” Olipa noted.
The opportunity is timely as the Cricket Cranes prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier in Abuja, Nigeria, running from October 18 to 25.
The exposure and experience gained by Miyaji and Olipa playing alongside established players in Zimbabwe could prove invaluable as Uganda finalises its preparations.
