By 
The Cricket Cranes faced a setback in their journey at the ongoing ICC T20 Men’s World Cup Africa Qualifiers, suffering a defeat against hosts Namibia following their earlier victory against Tanzania.
Despite this loss, their path to qualification remains open with only two games played out of six, leaving ample opportunity to rebound.
The toss favored Namibia’s decision to bowl first due to the slow outfield after morning rain, hampering Uganda’s chances of setting a high total.
Historically, Uganda performed well while chasing, but having to bat first, they struggled to set a competitive pace.
The initial phase seemed promising, yet Simon Ssesazi’s LBW dismissal on the fourth over’s first delivery, followed by Roger Mukasa’s catch on the fifth over’s third delivery, disrupted Uganda’s momentum, losing half their wickets within ten overs.
With key hitters departing early, Uganda struggled to establish partnerships and manage a consistent batting performance, concluding at 114 all out in 19.4 overs.
Captain Brian Masaba acknowledged the team’s failure in execution rather than attributing the loss to the pitch conditions, emphasizing the need for improved batting consistency in the games to come.
Captain Brian Masaba talking to the press.
Facing one of the top-ranked associate nations, Uganda’s victory wasn’t obvious, but the team’s fielding, marked by five dropped catches, raised concerns.
A score closer to 150 might have been more competitive, as they pressured the hosts till the seventeenth over with 114 runs.
The tactical inclusion of seasoned spinner Frank Nsubuga aimed to challenge Namibia’s left-handed batsmen and bring experience plus life to the field but yielded minimal success as Uganda had little to defend.
Though the loss doesn’t diminish their World Cup aspirations, the team must regroup swiftly, as in their next encounter they will face a formidable opponent Zimbabwe tomorrow, Sunday 26th November 2023 at 10:30 Am at United Cricket Oval.
Reflecting on the previous match, rectifying errors, and maintaining composure will be crucial for the Cranes as they encounter a challenging side boasting seasoned players like captain allrounder Sikandar Raza, and the good bowling attack of Blessing Muzarabani and Masakadza Wellington.
Recognizing that setbacks are part of the learning curve, the Cricket Cranes should maintain their preparation, aim for consistently to revive their aspirations for the World Cup.
