The 2026 Great Lakes Men’s T20 Championship got off to an exciting start at Lugogo Cricket Oval on Friday, delivering two contrasting encounters that showcased both disciplined cricket and edge-of-the-seat drama.
Bunyonyi Warriors registered a convincing five-wicket victory over Victoria Strikers in the morning fixture, while Kyoga Avengers edged Mburo Blasters in a thrilling Super Over after both sides finished tied on 176 in one of the most dramatic matches of the tournament so far.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Victoria Strikers struggled to establish momentum as wickets fell at regular intervals. Simon Ssesazi departed for 12 before Perry Wazombe (20) and Robert Ajuna (0) followed in quick succession, leaving the batting side under pressure.
Kenneth Waiswa briefly lifted the innings with a blistering 24 off just nine deliveries, including four boundaries and a six. Christopher Kidega (17) and Jaffer Ochaya (18) made useful contributions, while Emmanuel Twijukye remained unbeaten on 13 to help Victoria post 116 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs.
Bunyonyi Warriors’ bowling attack was spearheaded by Gurjivan Singh, whose outstanding four-wicket haul dismantled the Strikers’ batting order and ensured they never gained control of the innings. Jonathan Nyiiro and Tendo Rayan provided valuable support with key breakthroughs.
In reply, Bunyonyi suffered an early setback when Obuya Robinson was dismissed for just one run. However, Anas Baig steadied the chase with a commanding half-century, scoring 53 off 36 balls and striking four fours and three sixes.
Fred Achelam added 22 runs before Kyewuta Cosmas accelerated the finish with an unbeaten 29 from only 10 deliveries. The Warriors reached 118 for 5 in 16.3 overs to seal a comfortable victory.
Despite Perry Wazombe’s figures of 2 for 15, Victoria’s modest total proved insufficient. Gurjivan Singh was named Player of the Match for his decisive bowling performance.
The afternoon contest between Mburo Blasters and Kyoga Avengers produced a high-scoring spectacle filled with momentum swings and late drama.
Mburo Blasters elected to bat first and posted an imposing 176 all out in 19.4 overs. Fahad Mutagana led the early charge with 42 off 19 balls, while Charles Musemeza contributed 25 from 17 deliveries. Riazat Ali Shah added a valuable 31 off 19 balls to maintain the scoring rate.
Further contributions from Suleman Sharif (19) and Steven Wabwose (19) helped Mburo build a competitive total, although Kyoga’s bowlers struck regularly in the closing overs. Gerald Olipa was the pick of the attack with three wickets.
Kyoga Avengers responded positively, with Ronald Lutaaya (24) and Cyrus Kakuru (37) laying a solid foundation at the top of the order. The momentum shifted dramatically when Robert Owili launched a stunning counterattack, smashing 45 runs from just 20 balls to put Kyoga firmly in contention.
Junaid Khan added 25, while Ismail Munir’s unbeaten 23 ensured the chase remained alive until the final moments.
Mburo’s bowlers mounted a spirited comeback through Hamid Munigwa, who claimed three wickets, and Sowobi Yunus, who took two. However, Kyoga matched Mburo’s total exactly, finishing on 176 all out after 20 overs to force a Super Over.
With the match hanging in the balance, Kyoga held their nerve in the Super Over to secure a dramatic victory and claim one of the tournament’s most memorable wins.
Owili’s explosive innings proved to be the defining performance of the contest, earning him the Player of the Match award.
Match Results
Morning Match
Victoria Strikers: 116/9 (20 overs)
Bunyonyi Warriors: 118/5 (16.3 overs)
Result: Bunyonyi Warriors won by 5 wickets
Player of the Match: Gurjivan Singh
Afternoon Match
Mburo Blasters: 176 all out (19.4 overs)
Kyoga Avengers: 176 all out (20 overs)
Result: Match tied; Kyoga Avengers won the Super Over
Player of the Match: Robert Owili
Fixtures – June 13
Morning Fixture: Kyoga Avengers vs Victoria Strikers
Afternoon Fixture: Bunyonyi Warriors vs Mburo Blasters
