Uganda’s Cricket Cranes suffered their first defeat in 12 games in the Challenge League after Italy produced a disciplined all-round performance to win the second game of the final stop by 113 runs on Tuesday.

Italy posted 192/9 in their allotted 50 overs before Uganda were bowled out for just 79, with the Cricket Cranes struggling to find a way through Italy’s spin-heavy attack on a difficult surface.

The toss proved crucial on a wicket that became increasingly challenging for batting as the afternoon progressed. Italy won the toss and elected to bat first, a decision that paid off as they patiently built their total despite the testing conditions.

Uganda relied heavily on spin, leaving out the two specialist quick bowlers and bringing Gerald Olipa into the side in place of Juma Miyaji.

Sumeet Varma led Uganda’s bowling effort with 4/49, while Alpesh Ramjani claimed 2/27. Joseph Baguma and Henry Ssenyondo picked up a wicket apiece as Uganda restricted Italy to 192/9 from their 50 overs.

However, the chase never got going.

Simon Ssesazi and Gerald Olipa top-scored for Uganda with 19 runs each, but the rest of the batting line-up struggled to withstand Italy’s attack.

Rather than taking the initiative and putting pressure back on the bowlers, Uganda appeared increasingly focused on survival. The approach proved costly as wickets fell regularly and the Cricket Cranes were eventually dismissed for 79.

The defeat ends Uganda’s unbeaten run but does not completely derail their campaign, with their qualification hopes still in their own hands. However, Italy’s victory has moved them to the top of the table, despite the two teams being level on points.

Hong Kong China are now four points behind Uganda and will need the Cricket Cranes to lose two more matches, including their head-to-head encounter, if they are to move into second place.

There is little time for Uganda to dwell on the defeat, with Hong Kong China waiting on Wednesday in what is now a crucial encounter.

Coach Steve Tikolo and his charges will need a quick response as they look to bounce back and keep their Challenge League campaign on track.