Fred Achelam’s return to the Cricket Cranes has come with another big responsibility leading Uganda on tour in India.
The experienced wicketkeeper-batsman has been named captain as Uganda prepare for their first ever tour of Mumbai from May 16-31, where the Cricket Cranes will play five 50-over matches and three T20 games against strong opposition.
Achelam returns to the national setup alongside Ronald Lutaaya and off spinner Siraje Nsubuga, adding experience to a squad that also includes several young faces.
For Uganda’s selectors and coaches, the tour offers more than just matches. It is an important chance to assess the squad ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B in Tanzania.
Former Uganda U-19 captain Fahad Mutagana has earned his first senior national team call up after impressive performances, while pace bowler Enock Kasaija also joins the squad for the first time.
Uganda have maintained the core of the side that has guided the team in recent years.
Simon Ssesazi is expected to lead at the top of the order again, while Dinesh Nakrani and Alpesh Ramjani will be relied upon to provide balance with both bat and ball.
Henry Ssenyondo also remains a key figure in the spin department.
The tour is also part of a growing relationship between Cricket Uganda and the Mumbai Cricket Association, with the two bodies expected to sign a five year partnership later this month.
The agreement will focus on improving high performance structures, creating player pathways, increasing international opportunities and supporting women’s cricket.
Uganda’s touring squad includes Fred Achelam (captain), Simon Ssesazi, Charles Musemeza, Ronald Lutaaya, Gerald Olipa, Anas Baig Mirza, Fahad Mutagana, Juma Miyaji, Cosmas Kyewuta, Joseph Baguma, Henry Ssenyondo, Siraje Nsubuga, Enock Kasaija, Dinesh Nakrani, Raghav Dhawan and Alpesh Ramjani.
