Uganda’s Cricket Cranes faced another stern test as they were comprehensively outplayed by Namibia in the first 50-over encounter of the ongoing series at the FNB Namibia Cricket Ground.
Namibia dominated with a 173-run victory, leaving Uganda still searching for consistency on their tour.
After losing the toss, Uganda were asked to field first. The visitors’ new-ball attack managed to contain Namibia to 19 without loss after 10 overs, but breakthroughs were slow to come. Former Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus then led a commanding innings, scoring 88 runs off 47 balls, supported by Jan Frylinck’s 44 and contributions down the order.
Namibia posted a competitive 303/8 in their allotted 50 overs, with Uganda conceding 27 extras that added to the challenge. Cosmas Kyewuta (3/43) and Kenneth Waiswa (2/68) were the pick of the bowlers.
Chasing a daunting total, Uganda’s innings faltered early. Ruben Trumpelmann’s incisive 4/27 and Max Heingo’s 2/28 dismantled the top order, leaving the Cranes reeling at 48/5 inside 10 overs. Juma Miyaji (36) and Anas Mirza Baig (25) offered some resistance, but Uganda were bowled out for 130 in just 30.2 overs.
Opening batsman Simon Ssesazi admitted the team still has lessons to learn:
“It was a poor start from us. With the ball, we didn’t utilise the conditions well and gave away too many freebies. Their bowlers kept it simple, bowled straight, and made it difficult for us. We’re learning a lot from how they read the game and stay disciplined. It’s a process, but we’ll keep improving.”
Uganda will aim to recover in the second and final 50-over match on March 25, hoping for a stronger performance to close out the tour on a higher note.
Remaining Fixture:
March 25: 50 Overs vs Namibia
Team Uganda in Namibia:
Riazat Ali Shah (Captain), Robinson Obuya, Simon Ssesazi, Anas Mirza Baig, Kenneth Waiswa, Cyrus Kakuru, Charles Musemeza, Juma Miyaji, Cosmas Kyewuta, Bilal Hassun, Henry Ssenyondo, Joseph Baguma, Mathew Musinguzi, Gerald Olipa
