In a gripping start to the men’s cricket tournament at the African Games in Accra’s Achimota Complex, Uganda’s Cricket Cranes displayed their dominance, securing a convincing 72-run victory over Kenya. Played on the lively grounds, Uganda posted an impressive total of 169/7 in their 20 overs, setting the tone for an exciting tournament ahead.
In response, Kenya who were made to field first by Uganda struggled to chase down the target, eventually getting bundled out for a mere 97 runs in 16.4 overs.
Match Summary
Kenya- 97/10 in 16.4 overs
Uganda- 169/7 in 20 overs
Uganda won by 72 runs
Roger Mukasa emerged as a standout performer, notching up a brilliant 59 runs off just 45 balls, while Dinesh Nakrani contributed a crucial 43 runs off 23 balls.
Kenya’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Lucas Oluoch, who claimed an impressive 5 wickets for 20 runs in 4 overs.
For Kenya’s innings, Rakep Patel and Gurdeep Singh put up a valiant effort with the bat, scoring 42 runs and 22 runs respectively. However, they couldn’t withstand Uganda’s bowling attack, with Alpesh Ramjani and Bilal Hassun picking up crucial wickets.
The Player of the Match honor was bestowed upon Dinesh Nakrani for his stellar performance with the bat. He managed 43 runners, picked one wicket and had one catch.
Looking ahead, Uganda is set to clash against Ghana in their next fixture at Achimota Complex B, scheduled for today at 4:45 PM.
In a notable milestone, Roger Mukasa reached a significant landmark in his T20I career, crossing the 1000-run mark during his 50th T20I innings. His exceptional knock of 59 runs not only propelled him into the elite club but also solidified his status as one of Uganda’s premier cricketers. Mukasa now joins the likes of Simon Ssesazi (1909 runs) and Riazat Ali Shah (1212) as the third Ugandan to achieve this feat.
Additionally, Ssesazi also etched his name in history, becoming the most capped Ugandan with 75 T20I appearances, surpassing his elder brother Henry Ssenyondo.
The victory against Kenya and Mukasa’s milestone add to Uganda’s cricketing legacy, underscoring their growing prominence in the international cricketing arena.
