Uganda Cricket Cranes concluded the second round of the ICC CWC Challenge League B on a strong note, maintaining their grip at the top of the table.
Their final match against East African rivals Tanzania was anything but straightforward, yet they managed to secure a hard-fought victory.
On a lively pitch, Tanzania won the toss and opted to field first. Their bowlers made the most of the conditions, with Ally Kimote (4/20) and Khalidy Juma (1/30) reducing Uganda to a precarious 40/4.
However, a crucial middle-order recovery led by Raghav Dhawan (63), supported by Fred Achellam (21) and Dinesh Nakrani (23), helped Uganda post a total of 148 inside 42 overs, a score that seemed below par at first glance.
In the second innings, Uganda’s bowlers rose to the occasion, spearheaded by an extraordinary spell from Juma Miyagi, who claimed a career-best 6/17 in List A cricket.
He was ably supported by fellow pacers Cosmas Kyewuta (2/17), Nakrani (1/20), and Bilal Hassun (1/23), who ensured that Tanzania never got close to the target.
The Tanzanian batting lineup crumbled under relentless pressure, and Uganda secured a 59-run victory.
Despite the win, it was not the most comfortable of victories, showcasing the competitive nature of the contest.
With this victory, Uganda solidified their position at the top of the table, four points ahead of Italy, who have a game in hand.
The Cricket Cranes mirrored their first-round performance with four wins and a draw away from home.
If they can replicate this form in the final round, they stand a strong chance of progressing to the next stage of the qualifiers.
Raghav Dhawan, after a tough start to his Cricket Cranes career, was instrumental in Uganda’s success, scoring four half-centuries and consistently rescuing his side in crucial moments.
Alpesh Ramjani also impressed with solid all-round performances, earning a Player of the Match award against Singapore.
However, the standout contributions came from Miyagi and Kyewuta, whose pace bowling proved decisive.
Captain Riazat Ali Shah, known for his ability to deliver in pressure situations, had a relatively quiet tournament but still contributed when needed.
All Second Round Results (Hosted by Hong Kong – China)
- Cricket Cranes beat Tanzania by 59 runs.
- Cricket Cranes beat Hong Kong by 76 runs.
- Cricket Cranes – Italy was washed Out.
- Cricket Cranes beat Singapore by 8 wickets.
- Cricket Cranes beat Bahrain by 52 runs.
Cricket Cranes now shift their focus from the 50-over format as they set their sights on the T20 Africa Finals in September.
The boys will be aiming to qualify for their second consecutive T20 World Cup, further solidifying their presence on the international stage.
