Uganda vice-captain Juma Miyaji has rejoined the national team camp in Windhoek following an impressive stint in Namibia, where he helped ATG WHS Old Boys Cricket Club secure the Namibia National 50-Over League title.
The 22-year-old all-rounder linked up with the Cricket Cranes on Monday evening after a successful few weeks abroad. His opportunity in Namibia came through Gerhard Erasmus, captain of the Namibia Eagles, who facilitated his move to the club.
Miyaji played a pivotal role in ATG WHS Old Boys’ title-winning campaign, culminating in a 33-run victory over Wanderers in the final on March 15. The team posted a formidable 307/7 before restricting their opponents to 274/9.
Over five matches, Miyaji delivered a strong bowling performance, claiming 11 wickets at an economy rate of 3.34, with best figures of 3/22. He also contributed in the field with four catches. In the final, he returned figures of 1/35 in 10 overs, including a maiden, and took the key wicket of Riaan Minni.
Speaking after rejoining the Ugandan squad, Miyaji described the experience as transformative for his development.
“I really had a great time in Namibia. Playing under Erasmus pushed me in every single game and helped me improve my focus, especially in longer formats like ODIs,” he said.
He added that the stint sharpened his bowling discipline, particularly in maintaining consistent lines and sustaining momentum during spells.
Miyaji also highlighted the favorable playing conditions in Namibia, noting that the pitches offered good bounce—an advantage for fast bowlers.
“The wickets in Namibia have been really good to bowl on. I’ve enjoyed it and hope to bring that confidence into the Uganda setup,” he said.
Uganda’s tour of Namibia, running from March 16 to 26, marks the start of their 2026 international season. The team is scheduled to play two T20 matches and three 50-over games against Namibia and Namibia A at the High Performance Oval and FNB Namibia Cricket Ground.
The squad includes potential debutants Anas Mirza Baig, Gerald Olipa, and Charles Musemeza, alongside returning players such as Simon Ssesazi, Kenneth Waiswa, Bilal Hassun, and Mathew Musinguzi.
The tour also signals the first assignment for new head coach Steve Tikolo, who recently signed a three-year deal with Cricket Uganda. Tikolo has described his appointment as a homecoming and is expected to steer the team through key qualification campaigns.
Uganda’s preparations in Namibia are focused on upcoming global qualification events, including the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B in August and the 2028 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifiers in October.
