Second edition of Waterfalls Men’s Elite T20 Tournament set to bowl off

Anticipation is high as the Waterfalls Men’s Elite T20 tournament prepares to get underway tomorrow at the Lugogo Cricket Oval.

Top male cricketers from across the country will converge for another eagerly awaited edition, following the conclusion of the Women’s Elite tournament yesterday.

The tournament features three competitive sides—Itanda Kayakers, Bujjagali Rafters, and Karuma Rapids—bringing together a mix of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent from across Uganda.

The competition arrives at a pivotal time, ahead of a busy year for both the Cricket Cranes and the Baby Cricket Cranes, with major qualification tournaments looming on the horizon.

Itanda Kayakers come into the tournament brimming with confidence, having claimed the inaugural 2023 title.

However, Sipi Trekkers, who participated in the previous edition, will be absent this year.

A standout feature of the tournament remains its development-focused rules.

Each team must field at least three Under-19 players in their playing eleven—a regulation that mirrors the Women’s Elite League and continues to offer a vital pathway for young talent.

Unlike the women’s competition, the men’s tournament will run without a rest day, promising an action-packed and intense schedule from start to finish.

On the technical side, the teams are in capable hands.

Jonathan Ssebanja will lead Itanda Kayakers, Sadam Oyaga takes charge of Bujjagali Rafters, and former international Roger Mukasa will coach Karuma Rapids.

Tomorrow’s opening fixtures promise an exhilarating start. Bujjagali Rafters face a challenging double-header, taking on Itanda Kayakers at 10:00 AM before returning to action against Karuma Rapids at 2:00 PM.

With all teams eager to make an early statement, fans can expect high-intensity cricket right from the first ball.

With competitive squads assembled and high stakes in play, the stage is set for a thrilling tournament that is expected to further cement the Waterfalls Elite League as a highlight of Uganda’s domestic cricket calendar.

FULL SQUADS

Itanda Kayakers

Cristopher Kidega (C), Simon Ssesazi, Perry Wazombe, Abraiz Ali, Anas Baig, Steve Wabwose (WK), Jaffer Ochaya, Pius Oloka, Siraje Nsubuga, Mathew Musinguzi, Baidhu Ivan, Musa Majid Ramathan, Devansh Patel, Kenneth Ogenrwot

Bujjagali Rafters

Juma Miyaji (C), Robinson Obuya, Gerald Olipa, Fahad Mutagana, Robert Ajuna, Calvin Watuwa, Fred Ahcelam, Joseph Baguma, Simon Oketcho, Enock Kasaija, Sowobi Yunusu, Balidawa Ali, Richard Sohera, Pity Daniel

Karuma Rapids

Kenneth Waiswa (C), Ronald Lutaya, Charles Musemeza, Brian Asaba, Munir Ismail, Cyrus Kakuru (WK), Paul Mulongo, Jonathan Nyiro, Cosmas Kyewuta, Henry Senyondo, Jordan Oketcho, Hamid Munigwa, Daniel Rubangakene, Felix Ochan

FULL TOURNAMENT FIXTURES