Riazat Ali Shah produced a Man of the Match performance as Uganda sailed to an 8-wicket win over Tanzania in their opening game of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers on Wednesday.
The all-rounder reminded the Tanzanians of the tears they shed in South Africa last year when he singlehandedly tormented them as Uganda beat the side in the finals of the Africa Cup.
Having sat out the East Africa Trophy in Rwanda in August, the all-rounder was playing against Tanzania for the first time this year, and he was no different from the man who did the damage last year.
Uganda savoured the Tanzanian innings. The fielding was brilliant, same as the bowling, as they restricted the side to just 99 runs, but a slow start in their chase raised the confidence levels in their opponent’s camp.
Tanzania had a dream start to their defence! Not only did they dismiss Ronak Patel for 15 and Roger Mukasa for 9 inside the 9th Over, they had Simon Ssesazi manage only 4 runs at that stage.
But when Riazat joined the crease after Mukasa’s dismissal, it was bad memories for the neighbors.
Given Tanzania put a paltry score, there was nothing like a big knock for Rizu, but he steadied the ship as Uganda sailed to their first win at the Qualifiers.
Riazat needed just 27 balls to score 47 runs and inspire Uganda to a much needed win. His introduction saw Ssesazi who had a very slow start come to life as the opener finished with 31 off 34.
The all-rounder also contributed with the ball. He picked 2 wickets while conceding only 14 runs. Alpesh Ramjani however, was the highest wicket taker in this game, plucking three.
Henry Senyondo got one, but had the best economy of 2.75 while Bilal Hassun continued with his wicket taking with one to his pocket.
This result means Uganda go top of the table for at least a few hours as Zimbabwe and Namibia face off later today.
Uganda will take an early break tomorrow and will return to action on Friday against Namibia.
Courtesy Photos
