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Uganda’s Cricket Cranes are gearing up for another thrilling chapter in their cricketing journey as they prepare to defend their title at the ILT20 Africa Continental Cup.
The tournament, set to take place from December 4–14, 2024, at the Gahanga International Cricket Stadium in Kigali, promises to deliver high-stakes action.
Uganda will face Botswana, Nigeria, and hosts Rwanda in a competitive round-robin format, culminating in the grand final on December 14.
Botswana and Nigeria enter the tournament in high spirits, having recently secured spots in the T20 Africa Finals.
While Rwanda narrowly missed qualification in Kenya, their players are in excellent form, fresh off the Rwanda Emerging Invitational Tournament.
The Cricket Cranes return to the competition as defending champions, having clinched last year’s title in a dramatic one-run victory over Kenya at the Nairobi Gymkhana Oval.
However, with Kenya absent from this year’s tournament, Uganda faces a new set of challengers as they aim to maintain their dominance.
Building on recent success, including winning the Rwanda Emerging Invitational Tournament, Uganda has made strategic tweaks to their squad.
Left-handed opener Simon Ssesazi, finger spinner Joseph Baguma, and batting all-rounder Pascal Murungi have been recalled to the senior team.
Chairman of Selectors Nehal Bibodi highlighted the emphasis on development and future readiness:
“We’re giving younger players opportunities for exposure. Pascal Murungi’s inclusion is about preparing him for the future. While experienced players like Kenneth Waiswa remain vital to our setup, this is a chance to nurture upcoming talent.
Joseph Baguma continues to impress with his potential for a long and successful career.”
Head Coach Abhay Sharma outlined the team’s preparation strategy:
“Our focus is on testing players in different roles and combinations to identify the strongest lineup for upcoming challenges, particularly next year’s ICC Africa T20 World Cup Qualifier Final.
Success will come through meticulous planning, preparation, and execution.”
Captain Riazat Ali Shah will lead the team, supported by a mix of youthful exuberance and seasoned experience.
The team had a light training session today and is set to commence action.
The opening match against Botswana, scheduled for tomorrow at 2:15 PM, sets the tone for Uganda’s campaign.
Fans can catch all the action live online, ensuring that the Cricket Cranes’ journey is followed closely by supporters back home whereas Touchline Sports has reporters on ground to keep you updated on the happenings.
Uganda’s full squad
Riazat Ali Shah (Captain), Pascal Murungi, Frank Nsubuga, Henry Ssenyondo, Dinesh Nakrani, Cosmas Kyewuta, Alpesh Ramjani, Robinson Obuya, Raghav Dhawan, Fred Achelam, Shrideep Mangela, Joseph Baguma, Simon Ssesazi, Juma Miyaji
Uganda’s Fixtues
