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What started as a routine cricket tour to Rwanda evolved into something far more meaningful for Uganda’s Cowcorner side a connection built on shared values, community spirit, and genuine hospitality.
Speaking on behalf of the team, interim chairman Allan Ssemakula expressed deep appreciation to the Rwanda Cricket Association for the warm reception and strong sense of camaraderie extended throughout the visit.
From the team’s arrival, he said, Cowcorner felt welcomed and at ease.
Ssemakula also commended the Rwandan Silverbacks, a social cricket outfit whose mission closely aligns with Cowcorner’s philosophy.
Like their Ugandan counterparts, the Silverbacks are made up of working-class players dedicated not only to competing on the field but also to inspiring young cricketers.
Beyond matches, they organize fundraising initiatives to support students in both sport and academics — an effort Cowcorner greatly admires.
The Silverbacks hold matches once a month, a structure Cowcorner is now considering adopting back home.
The Ugandan side is exploring regular fixtures and possibly introducing a membership subscription model.
They also expressed eagerness to host the Silverbacks in Uganda soon, hoping to reciprocate the warmth they experienced in Kigali.
Ssemakula further acknowledged the consistent backing of Cricket Uganda, whose support helped make the tour possible.
On the host side, Rwanda Cricket Association General Manager Emmanuel Byiringiro highlighted the long-standing cricket ties between the two nations.
Uganda, he noted, played a significant role in developing the sport in Rwanda’s early years, with pioneering coaches helping establish foundational structures.
He welcomed the renewed engagement between the current generation of players as a continuation of that shared history.
Byiringiro reaffirmed the association’s commitment to nurturing social cricket.
Teams such as the Silverbacks and Bakambwe continue to visit cricket hubs across Rwanda, motivating emerging players and demonstrating the pathways available within the sport.
He described the tour as another positive step for cricket’s growth in the region.
On the field, Cowcorner claimed the three-match series 2–0.
In the opening game on February 20, they successfully chased 74 runs, sealing a three-wicket victory after a tense finish.
The second match saw Cowcorner post 136/4, powered by half-centuries and key partnerships.
Rwanda’s Silverbacks mounted a spirited response but fell just three runs short while chasing 11 in the final over.
The final fixture was washed out by heavy rain, yet the weather did little to dampen spirits, as both sides continued celebrations off the field.
Cowcorner’s squad has since returned safely to Uganda, carrying more than just a series win they leave with strengthened friendships and a partnership that promises to grow well beyond this tour.
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