The Cricket Cranes bounced back on Day Two of the Pearl of Africa T20 Series, securing their first victory of the tournament with a thumping 77-run win over Nigeria (DLS Method) at the Entebbe Oval. This win followed a narrow two-run defeat in their opening match on Thursday.
Facing off against a spirited Nigerian side, Uganda turned up the intensity with both bat and ball, putting in a clinical all-round performance in front of a lively home crowd.
After electing to bat first, Uganda posted a commanding 180/4 in 20 overs, thanks to contributions throughout the top order. Openers Raghav Dhawan (33 off 21) and Shrideep Mangela (33 off 27) laid the foundation before Robinson Obuya anchored the innings with a composed unbeaten 58 off 39 balls, earning him the Player of the Match award. Cyrus Kakuru (26 off 18) and Dinesh Nakrani (13 off 7) added the finishing touches.
Nigeria, chasing a revised target of 163 after rain interrupted play in the second innings, struggled to keep up with the required rate. Despite a patient knock by Isaac Danladi (26 off 44) and some resistance from Selim Salau (24 off 30), they could only muster 85/5 in 18 overs.
Uganda’s bowlers kept the pressure on throughout. Debutant Mathew Musinguzi impressed with 2/16 in three overs, while captain Juma Miyaji (1/12) and all-rounder Alpesh Ramjani (1/13) played key supporting roles in choking Nigeria’s chase.
Speaking after the game, head coach Abhay Sharma and assistant Jackson Ogwang praised the team’s strong response after Thursday’s disappointment. “It was a good all-round effort, but we still need to fine-tune some areas,” said Ogwang. “We face a very strong UAE side next, and that’s a real test for our boys.”
Uganda will take on pre-tournament favourites UAE today, Saturday, July 19 at 1:30 PM, in what promises to be a high-stakes clash. UAE are ranked eight places above Uganda in the global T20 standings.
