The Uganda men’s national cricket team, Cricket Cranes are set to finish their ICC CWC Challenge League B journey in style as they face Tanzania in their final match tomorrow at the Mission Road Ground, Mong Kok.
Cricket Cranes, currently leading the standings with 16 points, have been in exceptional form throughout the tournament.
The team’s stellar run has included dominant performances against several competitors, with weather interruptions affecting only two matches—against Hong Kong-China and Italy. Their impressive campaign reflects consistent displays of skill and determination.
Tomorrow’s Fixtures – February 15, 2025:
Tanzania vs. Uganda – Mission Road Ground, Hong Kong (4:00 AM EAT)
Bahrain vs. Italy – Kowloon Cricket Club, Hong Kong (4:00 AM EAT)
In their last encounter on November 9, 2024, at Lugogo Oval, Uganda claimed a resounding 209-run victory over Tanzania. Captain Riazat Ali Shah led from the front with a remarkable century, while Cosmas Kyewuta delivered a five-wicket haul. Despite their previous dominance, Uganda’s wicketkeeper Fred Achelam remains cautious.
“We don’t want to take the game against Tanzania for granted. Anything can happen. They have played some really close games against us before in Rwanda and South Africa, and they know our game pretty well. We will look to use our seniority to edge them. We will have to do the simple things correctly and get the desired victory,” Achelam stated.
Head coach Abhay Sharma echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of maintaining focus while keeping the pressure off his players. “We would like to have a positive result on our side. But as a coach, I never want to put pressure on my team for results. I want them to enjoy as they go through the processes,” Sharma remarked.
Sharma also hinted at possible line-up changes depending on conditions assessed on match day. Weather forecasts for Mong Kok predict pleasant conditions with sunny skies, temperatures around 23°C, and minimal rain chances.
Probable Uganda XI:
Riazat Ali Shah (c), Raghav Dhawan, Cyrus Kakuru, Shrideep Mangela, Juma Miyaji, Dinesh Nakrani, Cosmas Kyewuta, Robinson Obuya, Alpesh Ramjani, Henry Ssenyondo, Frank Nsubuga.
12th Man: Fred Achelam.
