The Uganda Cricket Cranes are set for their biggest test yet in the ICC CWC Challenge League B as they face off against Italy in a table-topping showdown at the Kowloon Cricket Club on February 12.
Uganda leads the table with 13 points, while Italy trails closely behind with 11 points, making this fixture a decisive one in the tournament. Italy remains unbeaten in the Hong Kong leg, adding further stakes to the high-intensity encounter.
In preparation for the match, Uganda held an intensive two-in-one training session, balancing recovery and strategy. Some players trained at the gymnasium of Nina Hotel under the guidance of physiotherapist Udaka Galhena, focusing on recovery and fitness. Meanwhile, head coach Abhay Sharma led another session at Jascook Gym, ensuring the team is physically and mentally prepared for the challenge.
Sharma emphasized the importance of a disciplined approach against Italy, stating:
“Our plan against Italy is simple. We are not going to play names. We are going to play the ball – one delivery at a time. If we implement such, we will create a pressure scenario, and pressure, whoever implements better, will win.”
Opening batsman Robinson Obuya also expressed confidence, highlighting the team’s momentum and ambitious target:
“The first two wins give us momentum going forward. We are ticking the boxes as batsmen and our confidence is high. We must continue to target 250-plus, considering the small size of these grounds. We should actually go for 300-plus.
Head-to-head history
Uganda has a strong record against Italy, having won their last four encounters:
13-Nov-2024: Uganda won by 24 runs
07-Aug-2022: Uganda won by 7 wickets (181 balls remaining)
04-Jun-2022: Uganda won by 6 wickets (154 balls remaining)
09-Dec-2019: Uganda won by 38 runs
In their last meeting, Uganda defended 254 runs successfully, thanks to an outstanding bowling display from Henry Ssenyondo (4/28) and Alpesh Ramjani (5/69).
Match Details
Fixture: Uganda vs. Italy
Date: February 12, 2025
Venue: Kowloon Cricket Club, Hong Kong
Probable XI
Riazat Ali Shah (c), Raghav Dhawan, Fred Achelam, Shrideep Mangela, Juma Miyaji, Dinesh Nakrani, Cosmas Kyewuta, Robinson Obuya, Alpesh Ramjani, Henry Ssenyondo, Frank Nsubuga.
12th Man: Kenneth Waiswa
