The Young Bagurusi are on the brink of a defining chapter in their cricket journey as they embark on a historic tour to Kigali, Rwanda from February 19th to 22nd.
Across three T20 matches against Rwandan opposition, the tour represents far more than competition. It is a celebration of cricket, friendship, reconnection, and the enduring spirit of the game.
The team departed Kampala on Thursday morning and is set to arrive in Kigali later in the evening ahead of Friday’s opening match. For many in the squad — aged between 30 and 45 — the journey marks a return to a sport that shaped their school days and early adulthood.
Though careers, family responsibilities, and life commitments may have drawn them away from regular league action, their passion for cricket remains intact.
Playing under the banner “Cow Corner Boys,” the Young Bagurusi are living proof that love for the game does not diminish with age.
More than just matches
This first-of-its-kind tour is about more than runs and wickets. It reconnects former teammates who once competed against each other in school tournaments, rekindles friendships built on dusty pitches, and creates new networks that extend beyond national borders.
It also fosters bonds among cricketers navigating similar life stages — balancing professional careers, family life, and a shared devotion to cricket.
The schedule blends competition with camaraderie. After arrival, the team will face RCA Staff in Friday afternoon’s T20 fixture. Saturday features a double-header against Silverback before the team returns home on Sunday.
Yet, beyond the fixtures lies the deeper purpose of the Kigali experience: mentorship, storytelling, laughter, and a reminder that cricket is truly a lifelong sport.
A vision beyond the boundary
Speaking ahead of the tour, team representatives emphasized that the initiative seeks to revive the love of cricket and demonstrate that the sport is not exclusive to youth or elite competition.
Allan Ssemakula, one of the pioneers of the initiative and chairman of the group, described the tour as a milestone moment.
“As Chairman, I view this tour as a defining milestone,” Ssemakula said.
“What began as a small circle playing for fitness and friendship has grown into a platform for regional engagement and representation.”
He added that the vision extends beyond social cricket.
“Beyond competition, we aim to fundraise and support young cricketers with essential scholastic materials, menstrual health support, and other wellbeing supplies that help them stay active and confident in the game.”
The initiative highlights a growing movement of community-driven cricket engagement in East Africa — where sport serves as a bridge for wellness, mentorship, and regional solidarity.
Strengthening regional ties
Cricket Uganda has welcomed the initiative, noting that it reinforces its relationship with the Rwanda Cricket Association.
Much like last year’s London Nigerians tour to Uganda, the Kigali visit provides a platform for non-league and working-class cricketers to remain active in competitive yet social cricket environments.
The Young Bagurusi tour is envisioned as the beginning of recurring regional engagements — strengthening East African cricket ties while promoting lifelong participation in sport.
Travelling Squad
- Allan Ssemakula
- Andrew Nyumba
- Denis Musali
- Musana Felix
- Brian Mark Masaba
- Davis Karashani Arinaitwe
- Jimmy Atuhairwe
- Richard Oluka
- Shane Ssenyonga
- Hillary Kuteesa
- Derrick Bakunzi
- Gerard Orumo
- Joseph Epiangu
- Arthur Kyagaba
- Jacob Godwin Kayinja
- Henry Twinomujuni
