Uganda’s Cricket Cranes displayed remarkable grit and determination to secure a hard-fought 59-run victory over Tanzania in their final game of the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B second leg at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground in Hong Kong on February 15.
The crucial win keeps Uganda firmly atop the table with 18 points, setting up an important final leg in Tanzania later this year.
Opting to bat first, Uganda faced early struggles, posting their lowest total of the tournament — 148 all out in 41.1 overs. Raghav Dhawan’s resilient 63 runs off 102 balls stood out as he recorded his fourth successive half-century. Tanzania’s bowlers, led by Ally Mpeka Kimote (4/20) and Khalidy Juma (1/30), posed constant threats, reducing Uganda to precarious positions at 40/4 and 122/8.
Despite the modest score, Uganda’s bowling attack rose to the occasion. Fast bowler Juma Miyaji produced a career-best performance, dismantling Tanzania with remarkable figures of 6/17. His disciplined line and length dismissed Tanzania for just 89 runs in 29.1 overs, sealing a thrilling victory for Uganda. Miyaji’s outstanding display earned him the Player of the Match award.
Reflecting on the match, Miyaji said, “It wasn’t an easy game, but my teammates fought hard. Our plan was simple—bowl straight, attack the stumps, and deny them width. I’m happy I could contribute to our victory.”
Captain Riazat Ali Shah praised the team’s resilience, stating, “This was a pressure game, but our bowlers stepped up in challenging conditions. Tanzania gave us a tough contest, but we stuck to basics and got the job done.”
Coach Abhay Sharma echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of Uganda’s bowling efforts. “It was a tight match because we didn’t get enough runs, but I always believed we could defend it. Our bowlers executed the plan perfectly, taking it five overs at a time. This victory is a lesson for us to keep working hard,” he remarked.
With this win, Uganda shifts its focus to the final leg in Tanzania, where they aim to secure qualification for the ICC 2027 World Cup Qualifier Playoff.
Match Summary:
Uganda: 148/10 in 41.1 overs (R. Dhawan 63, D. Nakrani 23, F. Achelams 21; A.M. Kimote 4/20)
Tanzania: 89/10 in 29.1 overs (A. Jasani 23, A. Ali 17; J. Miyaji 6/17, C. Kyewuta 2/17)
Result: Uganda won by 59 runs.
