Cranes stumble again as Namibia dominate series opener in Windhoek

The Uganda Cricket Cranes suffered yet another setback on tour, falling to a crushing 173-run defeat against Namibia in the opening match of their two-game 50-over series at the FNB Namibia Cricket Ground on March 23.

The result leaves Uganda trailing 1-0 in the series, compounding frustrations after their 2-1 T20I series loss and raising fresh questions about consistency in both execution and game management issues the head coach has repeatedly emphasized throughout the tour.

Uganda Cricket Cranes opener Simon Ssesazi has pointed to poor execution and lack of discipline as key factors behind Uganda’s heavy 173-run loss to Namibia in the opening match of the 50-over series.

Uganda, chasing 304 at the FNB Namibia Cricket Ground, were bowled out for 130 in 30.2 overs after a top-order collapse left them struggling at 48/5 inside the first 10 overs.

Reflecting on the defeat, Ssesazi admitted the team failed to maximize conditions early in the game.

“It was a poor start from us. With the ball, we didn’t utilise the conditions well and gave away too many freebies. At one stage we tried to pull it back, but they still had wickets in hand and controlled the game better than us.”

Uganda had initially shown promise with a disciplined start in the field but could not secure early breakthroughs, allowing Namibia to recover and post a commanding 303/8.

Ssesazi also credited Namibia’s disciplined bowling approach for Uganda’s struggles with the bat.

“Their bowlers kept it simple, bowled straight, used the short ball well, and didn’t try to do too much. That made it difficult for us.”

Despite the setback, he emphasized the learning curve for the team, noting the importance of game awareness and composure.

“We’re learning a lot from them especially the way they read the game, rotate the strike, and stay disciplined. It’s a process, but we’ll keep improving.”

The defeat gives Namibia a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, with Uganda needing a response in the final game on March 25 to avoid another series loss on tour.