Uganda’s Cricket Cranes delivered a spirited performance in the final match of their tour against Namibia, but rain forced an abandonment that denied them a chance to push for a result in the 50-over contest.
In a match reduced to 35 overs per side, Uganda’s bowlers produced one of their most disciplined displays of the tour, dismissing Namibia for 159 in 30 overs. However, their chase was cut short at 53 for 4 in 19 overs when persistent rain made it impossible to continue.
Joseph Baguma led the charge with an outstanding spell of 4 for 42, cutting through Namibia’s middle order and putting Uganda firmly in control. Bilal Hassun provided strong support with 2 for 17, especially effective in the closing overs.
Captain Riazat Ali Shah also played a key role early on, contributing to a run-out and claiming a wicket to leave Namibia at 40 for 2 after 10 overs. Despite efforts from Gerhard Erasmus, who scored 44, and Malan Kruger with 41, Uganda maintained pressure throughout the innings.
A notable improvement for Uganda came in their discipline, conceding just one extra compared to 27 in the previous match, underlining progress in their bowling execution.
Uganda’s response with the bat got off to a difficult start, losing early wickets to slip to 35 for 4. The innings was further complicated by contentious umpiring decisions, including a disputed first-ball dismissal of Robinson Obuya.
Gerald Olipa made 17 while Simon Ssesazi added 11 as Uganda attempted to steady the innings. Kenneth Waiswa and Anas Baig then began rebuilding cautiously before rain interrupted play.
With Namibia unable to bowl the minimum 20 overs required for a result, the match was officially abandoned.
The result confirmed Namibia’s 1-0 victory in the 50-over series and a 3-1 win across the tour. Despite this, Uganda showed encouraging signs, particularly with the ball and in overall discipline.
Head coach Steve Tikolo praised the team’s improvement, highlighting the reduction in extras and the players’ resilience. Namibia head coach Craig Williams also acknowledged Uganda’s progress, pointing to improved structure while calling for greater consistency.
Vice-captain Juma Miyaji described the tour as a valuable learning experience, noting the need for stronger batting partnerships moving forward.
Uganda fielded a youthful squad during the tour, giving opportunities to emerging players such as Gerald Olipa, Anas Baig, and Charles Musemeza, who all showed promise.
Attention now turns to upcoming international assignments, including the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B in Tanzania and T20 World Cup qualification events in Nigeria, as Uganda looks to build on the positives from the Namibia tour.
