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Match-day three results
Ruby Vs God
Match Abandoned
Sapphire Vs Emerald
Sapphire 149/3 in 18 overs
Emerald 131/7 in 19 overs
Sapphire won by 18 runs
On match day three of the Batball Maxx tournament at Lugogo Cricket Oval yesterday, Sapphire secured a thrilling 18-run victory over Emerald, thanks to Kakaire Geoffrey’s clinical bowling in the final over.
Following an early rain shower, the match was reduced to 18 overs per side, and Emerald won the toss, opting to bowl.
Sapphire’s openers, Hamu Kayondo and Didier Ndikwibimana, provided a solid start with a 102-run partnership.
Didier and Ham while batting for Sapphire
Kayondo led the charge with a well-played 65 off 43 balls, while Ndikwibimana contributed 48 off 44.
Despite the break in their partnership in the 13th over, Sapphire’s total remained strong, with Kayondo adding another 13 runs in the final overs, setting a competitive target.
Emerald’s bowlers struggled to keep the runs in check, with Baidu Ivan taking 2/36 and Jonathan Kiiza claiming 1/23.
Despite their efforts, they couldn’t halt Sapphire’s progress, which allowed them to post a substantial total.
In response, Emerald started strong with Simon Ssesazi and Charles Musemeza putting on a 40-run partnership.
Ssesazi went on to score his first half-century of the tournament, making 51 off 39 balls.
Musemeza contributed 19 runs before being dismissed.
Ronald Lutaaya looked set to take Emerald home, scoring 46 off 34 balls, but his wicket at a crucial moment slowed their chase.
Frank Nsubuga fought back, but was stranded at the non-striker’s end as pressure mounted.
With 19 runs required from the final over, Sapphire’s Kakaire Geofrey was given the responsibility of defending the target.
He executed his plan perfectly, conceding just one run and securing the win for Sapphire.
Sapphire’s bowlers delivered when needed most, with Oloka Pius taking 3/30, while Henry Ssenyondo, Kakaire Geofrey, and Calvin Watuwa claimed a wicket each, keeping Emerald under control.
The victory moved Sapphire to four points, putting them second on the table.
Despite the loss, Emerald sits on top because of net run rate.
Gold sits third with three points, while Ruby remains last with one point.
Earlier, Ruby and Gold shared the points after their match was abandoned due to heavy morning rain.
As the teams take a rest today, the second round-robin phase begins on Tuesday, every match now holds added significance.
Sapphire will face Gold in the morning, while Ruby, still seeking their first win, will meet Emerald in the afternoon.
