Match Summary
- Uganda U-19 160/10 in 34.2 overs (Christopher Kidega 32, Ochen Peter 47)
- Tanzania U-19 164/7 in 39.1 overs (Dylan Manish 30, Mohamed Simba 41*)
- Tanzania U-19 won by 3 wickets
In an exciting opening match of the 2025 Easter Youth 50 Overs Series at Lugogo Cricket Oval, Tanzania U-19 emerged victorious by 3 wickets against Uganda U-19.
The match, which saw both teams display moments of brilliance, was a true test of resilience and composure.
Uganda won the toss and opted to bat first, but their innings were immediately under pressure from Tanzania’s disciplined bowling attack.
Khalidy Amiri Juma set the tone for Tanzania with a spectacular first-over dismissal of Uganda’s top-order batsman, Gerald Olipa, who was sent back for a duck.
This early breakthrough was followed by more tight bowling that kept the Ugandan batsmen on edge.
Despite a quickfire 32 from Christopher Kidega off 21 balls and a 40-run partnership with Conrad Lubwama, Uganda’s batting faltered. Two quick runouts further crippled their chances, leaving them struggling at 92/6.
Ochen Peter’s composed knock of 47 off 50 balls, supported by Musa Majid’s 23, ensured Uganda managed to post a modest total of 160 all out in 34.2 overs.
Tanzania’s bowling attack was led by Khalidy Amiri Juma, who claimed 3 wickets for 22 runs, with valuable support from Augustine Meya Mwamele (2/23) and Mohamed Simba Mbaki (2/42).
Chasing 161 for victory, Tanzania faced early setbacks as Ugandan bowler Balidawa Ali made an immediate impact, removing 3 Tanzania wickets quickly.
By the 10th over, Tanzania was reeling at 47/3, putting them under immense pressure.
However, Tanzania’s middle order steadied the ship, with Mohamed Simba Mbaki leading the recovery. Mbaki’s 41 off 40 balls was pivotal in rebuilding the innings.
He was well supported by Dylan Manish Thakrar, who contributed a brisk 30 off 23 balls, and Augustine Meya Mwamele, whose 26 off 53 balls provided crucial stability.
Tanzania ultimately reached 164/7 in 39.1 overs, securing a 3-wicket victory. Mbaki’s all-round performance, which included his vital contributions with both bat and ball, earned him the Player of the Match award.
Uganda’s captain, Gerald Olipa, and assistant coach, Robinson Turinawe, reflected on the missed catching opportunities that hampered their efforts, acknowledging that these moments cost them dearly.
Despite the loss, both remained hopeful and optimistic about their team’s prospects in the upcoming matches.
Tanzania’s victory puts them in a strong position as they look ahead to the next encounter in the series, which will also take place at the Lugogo Cricket Oval.
With key contributions from Mbaki, Thakrar, and Mwamele, Tanzania will aim to build on this victory, while Uganda will seek to bounce back and capitalize on their strengths in the next game.
