In an intense semi-final clash at the UDSM Ground, Tanzania showcased their determination and skill to secure a spot in the finals of the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Africa Division 2 Qualifier.
Winning the toss, Tanzania elected to bat first. The innings was anchored by a heroic performance from Darpan Jobanputra,
who scored a gritty 56 off 132 balls. His steadfast presence at the crease was crucial in helping Tanzania reach a total of 164/9 in their allotted 50 overs.
Darpan’s partnerships were key to the innings, with a 37-run stand for the 5th wicket with Sayan Jobanputra and a 41-run partnership for the 6th wicket with Omary Ramadhani.
Despite losing opener Dylan Manish early, and the huge celebration from the Rwandan team when Karim Rashidi Kiseto, the tournament’s top run-getter, was dismissed, Darpan held the innings together.
Post-match, Darpan mentioned, “The instructions were simple: stay on the wicket, runs will come.” Rwanda’s chase began steadily, reaching 80/4 after 30 overs, with Yves Cyusa leading the charge.
However, Tanzania’s opening bowler, Khalidy Juma, stepped up for his second spell and turned the game on its head. In the 31st over, Juma took 2 wickets in 2 balls, sending the stumps cartwheeling and dismissing Theoneste Hakuziyaremye and
Tshiama Mukeba in successive deliveries.
Rwanda’s innings went into a shell, with Cyusa left watching wickets fall at the other end. Eventually, with the required run rate
climbing, Cyusa had to go for it, only to be stumped off Azhar Premji’s bowling by wicketkeeper Omary Ramadhani.
Despite a valiant effort from Cyusa, who scored 55 off 109 balls, Rwanda was bowled out for 105 in 42.5 overs. Tanzania’s disciplined bowling, led by Khalidy Juma (3-30), ensured their victory by 64 runs, securing their place in the final.
Sierra Leone Dominates Nigeria to Seal Final Berth
At the Gymkhana Ground, Sierra Leone delivered a commanding performance against Nigeria. Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Sierra Leone restricted Nigeria to 116 all out in 31.3 overs.
Nigeria managed to handle Sierra Leone’s opening pace attack of James Bangura and George Sessay well, scoring 34 runs comfortably. However, recognizing the comfort with which Nigeria’s openers Ali Rahmon and Hossana Omokhobio were playing, Captain Raymond Coker introduced spin in the powerplay with himself and Mohamed Turay.
This strategic move paid off as Coker bowled Hossana Omokhobio in the 9th over, shifting the momentum in Sierra Leone’s favor. Peculiar Egamasi fought valiantly for Nigeria, top-scoring with 29 runs, but his efforts were not enough to steer his team to victory.
Raymond Coker was once again instrumental, taking 3-18 in 9 overs and leading his team with a crucial 109-run partnership with Alusine Turay. Turay top-scored with an unbeaten 65 off 52 balls, guiding Sierra Leone to a comfortable chase and finishing at 119/1 in just 19 overs.
This partnership was the key to their 9-wicket victory. Coker, winning his 3rd consecutive Player of the Match award and tying with Laksh Bakrania for the top wicket-taker spot with 12 wickets, said, “We trust and believe in each other. As a group, we are strong and keeping our focus for the final.”
His statement was followed by the team’s spirited Ala-lo-li-lo-lo chant, showcasing their unity and determination.
Match Summaries:
Tanzania U19: 169/9 (50.0 overs)
Rwanda U19: 105/10 (42.5 overs)
Tanzania won by 64 runs
Nigeria U19: 116/10 (31.3 overs)
Sierra Leone U19: 119/1 (19.0 overs)
Sierra Leone won by 9 wickets
Upcoming Fixtures: Sunday 11th August 2024
Third Place Playoff:
- UDSM: Nigeria vs Rwanda
Final:
- Dar Gymkhana: Tanzania vs Sierra Leone
Courtesy Photos
