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Match Result
Uganda 148/6 in 20 overs
Rwanda 98/9 in 20 overs
Uganda won by 50 runs
Fred Achelam’s captaincy debut proved successful as Uganda triumphed over Rwanda by 50 runs in the ILT20 Continental Cup in Kigali.
The match was significant for both teams, as it also marked the farewell of Rwanda’s veteran captain, Eric Dusingizimana, who played his final game in Rwandan colors.
With regular skipper Riazat Ali Shah rested, Achelam took charge of the Ugandan side.
Uganda’s innings began on a rocky note, losing early wickets as Simon Ssesazi and Robinson Obuya departed cheaply.
At 42/2 after six overs and 61/5 after 10 overs, the team struggled to build momentum.
A crucial 72-run partnership between Alpesh Ramjani (45 off 27) and Fred Achelam (27 off 23) steadied the innings.
Ramjani later reached a well-deserved half-century, finishing with 51 off 35 balls.
Uganda managed to post a competitive 148/6 in 20 overs despite a challenging pitch.
Nadir Mohammed was the standout bowler for Rwanda, taking three wickets while maintaining an excellent economy rate of 4 runs per over.
In response, Rwanda’s chase faltered under Uganda’s disciplined bowling attack. By the 10th over, Rwanda was struggling at 36/4.
Eric Dusingizimana, in his farewell innings, scored 10 off 13 balls, but his side managed only 98/9 in their 20 overs.
Uganda’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Juma Miyaji, Henry Ssenyondo, Dinesh Nakrani, and Joseph Baguma taking two wickets each.
Uganda’s head coach highlighted the decision to hand the captaincy to Achelam in today’s game, explaining that the team is exploring leadership options.
“We’re trying to identify good leaders among the players. Juma Miyaji was vice-captain during the PNG series, and today we gave Achelam a chance since wicketkeepers often have a good view of the game.”
Achelam expressed mixed feelings after his first win as captain, acknowledging the team’s shaky batting performance but celebrating the victory.
Meanwhile, Eric Dusingizimana’s 16-year cricket career ended on a poignant note.
Having represented Rwanda since 2008, he received a standing ovation from both teams.
In a touching gesture, he was presented with a portrait of his jersey number 51 by his wife, Sonia Uwimana, and Rwanda Cricket Association President Steven Musaale.
Uganda returns to action tomorrow against Botswana, while Rwanda faces Nigeria in a must-win match to keep their final hopes alive
Photo Credits: Ishimwe Abdoulkahal
