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The Cricket Cranes were given a grand send-off at Mestil Hotel in Nsambya by State Sports Minister Peter Ogwang, as they prepared to compete in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies for their first time ever.
The event, held on Saturday May 18, 2024, provided an evening of celebration and camaraderie for the team and their supporters, aptly named ‘The Last Supper.
The dinner was a gesture of appreciation and encouragement, allowing the players to unwind with key figures from the cricket community, thanks to the sponsorship of Lyca Mobile.
The Cricket Cranes, dressed in white tops and grey pants, mingled with Minister Ogwang, Uganda Cricket Association (UCA) board members, the Victoria Pearls team, Lyca Mobile officials, and members of the press.
Minister Ogwang Peter with the Cricket Cranes
Team captain Brian Masaba expressed his gratitude, saying, “We are happy to be sent off in good spirits and to know that so many people are behind us and the game.”
Reflecting on their recent training camp in Sri Lanka, he noted, “We see the support from Lyca in a bigger perspective because it offers opportunities for the sport to grow, even in terms of infrastructure.”
Minister Ogwang with the UCA board members and the team from Lyca Mobile
Minister Ogwang reiterated the government’s commitment to cricket, announcing a significant increase in funding from Shs1.2 billion to Shs3 billion for the 2024/25 financial year.
He urged the team to “Go and prove yourselves. Be disciplined, work hard, believe in God, and be respectful.”
The send-off dinner was not only a morale booster for the Cricket Cranes but also a testament to the robust support from sponsors, the government, and the Ugandan cricket community as the team prepares for the prestigious World Cup.
Photo credits: UCA/Bata Images
