By 
As the Uganda A cricket team prepares for a critical Emerging Quadrangular Series in Kigali, all eyes are on their experienced captain, Roger Mukasa Galiwango, affectionately known as “Papa” in cricketing circles.
This tournament marks Mukasa’s return to leadership, having previously captained the Cricket Cranes from 2017 to 2019.
His comeback is seen as a beacon of hope for Uganda’s aspirations in Rwanda.
Born on May 22, 1989, Mukasa has evolved into a cornerstone of Ugandan cricket.
His playing style, characterized by an elegant yet powerful approach as a right-handed top-order batsman, is complemented by his skillful right-arm off-spin.
Throughout his career, Mukasa has consistently demonstrated an ability to dismantle even the most formidable bowling attacks, making him an essential asset in Uganda’s batting lineup.
This series in Kigali presents another opportunity for “Papa” to showcase his enduring class, not just as a player, but as a leader who can inspire his teammates to reach new heights on the international stage.
Beyond his technical prowess, Mukasa embodies the spirit, resilience, and ambition that define Ugandan cricket.
Mukasa’s journey in the sport has been marked by numerous accolades.
In 2016, he was named Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA) Player of the Year, underscoring his consistent excellence on the field.
However, his most memorable achievement came at the 13th African Games in Accra, Ghana, where he led the Cricket Cranes to a historic bronze medal.
As the tournament’s top batsman, Mukasa amassed 230 runs, reaching the milestone of 1,000 T20I career runs—a testament to his skill and leadership.
Earlier this year, Mukasa was part of the squad that made Uganda’s historic debut at the T20 World Cup.
Unfortunately, he was not included in the team for the recently concluded ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Challenge League B tournament hosted in Kampala.
Mukasa had started picking up his form backed up by his commendable performance in the warm-up series against Italy, where he narrowly missed a half-century by just two runs in the opening game and consistently reached double figures in the subsequent matches.
Mukasa’s recent struggles with the bat have been a talking point, but the Kigali series offers a chance for redemption.
It is a platform for him to reclaim his spot in the Cricket Cranes’ final squad, which is gearing up for the second round of the ICC Challenge League B in Hong Kong early next year.
With his proven track record as a fine top-order batsman, Mukasa will be eager to make a statement, score crucial runs, and catch the selectors’ attention.
As Uganda A takes to the field under Mukasa’s leadership, the seasoned cricketer’s journey is far from over.
This tournament is not just a test of his skill but a testament to his resilience as he fights to return to the pinnacle of Ugandan cricket.
Traveling Squad
Team Uganda A
- Simon Ssesazi
- Roger Mukasa (C)
- Anas Baig
- Ronald Lutaaya
- Cyrus Kakuru
- Pascal Murungi
- Calvin Watuwa
- Joseph Baguma
- Siraj Nsubuga
- Steven Wabwose
- Christopher Kidega
- Ivan Baidu
- Musa Majid
- Jonathan Ssebanja
Officials
- Davis Turinawe – Head Coach
- Richard Okia – Team Manager
- Habiba Kulusum Anguyo – Physiotherapist
- Eric Wandera – Umpire
