Uganda’s Cricket Cranes made a powerful statement ahead of their ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B campaign, defeating hosts Tanzania by 103 runs in their opening warm-up match at the newly constructed NTS Ground at the University of Dar es Salaam.
The victory marked a historic occasion as the match became the first-ever cricket fixture played at the new venue, with Uganda using the opportunity to fine-tune their preparations ahead of the qualification tournament.
All-rounder Sumeet Verma was the standout performer, producing a match-winning century before returning with the ball to claim two wickets as Uganda posted 314/5 in 50 overs before restricting Tanzania to 211 all out in 48.2 overs.
Verma anchored Uganda’s innings with a composed 106 off 114 deliveries, striking nine boundaries and one six. His innings provided the foundation for a commanding total as the Cricket Cranes built momentum throughout the contest.
Captain Riazat Ali Shah added further firepower with an explosive 65 off just 44 balls, including three fours and four sixes, before retiring after a blistering contribution. Opening batter Raghav Dhawan also played a crucial role, scoring 55 from 46 deliveries before retiring as a precaution after experiencing discomfort following a shot.
Kenneth Waiswa contributed 32, while Alpesh Ramjani added a quick 20 from 16 balls to help Uganda finish strongly at 314/5.
Tanzania responded with determination but struggled to maintain the required scoring rate against a disciplined Ugandan bowling attack. Opener Dhrumit Mehta top-scored with 41 off 37 balls, while Abhishek Kumar made 33 and Umar Shaikh contributed 35. Mohamed Omary Kitunda added 25 before Uganda completed the victory by bowling out the hosts for 211.
Uganda’s spin department played a key role in controlling the chase, with Alpesh Ramjani, Henry Ssenyondo, Joseph Baguma and Sumeet Verma each taking two wickets. Medium pacer Kenneth Waiswa and fast bowler Juma Miyaji picked up one wicket apiece.
Ssenyondo was among Uganda’s most economical bowlers, finishing with figures of 2/39 from his 10 overs, while Verma completed his all-round performance with 2/32 from 9.2 overs.
The win provides the Cricket Cranes with valuable confidence and match practice as they prepare for the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B campaign, which begins on August 8 against Tanzania.
Uganda will play their final warm-up fixture against Hong Kong, China on August 6 at the Annadil Burhani Cricket Ground in Dar es Salaam. The match will allow the team to continue assessing combinations, adapting to local conditions and building momentum ahead of their ODI status and World Cup qualification push.
Match Summary
ICC CWC Challenge League B Warm-Up – Dar es Salaam
Uganda: 314/5 (50 overs)
Sumeet Verma 106
Riazat Ali Shah 65
Raghav Dhawan 55
Kenneth Waiswa 32
Alpesh Ramjani 20
Ally Mpeka Kimote 3/68
Tanzania: 211 all out (48.2 overs)
Dhrumit Mehta 41
Umar Shaikh 35
Abhishek Kumar 33
Mohammed Omary Kitunda 25
Sumeet Verma 2/32
Alpesh Ramjani 2/32
Henry Ssenyondo 2/39
Joseph Baguma 2/45
Result: Uganda won by 103 runs
Player of the Match: Sumeet Verma (106 & 2/32)
Next Warm-Up Fixture:
Uganda vs Hong Kong, China
August 6, 2026
9:30am
Annadil Burhani Cricket Ground, Dar es Salaam
