Karuma Rapids endured a mixed day on Matchday Three of the Waterfalls Men’s Elite T20, claiming a rain-affected victory over Bujjagali Rafters in the morning before falling to Itanda Kayakers in a tense afternoon encounter at Lugogo Cricket Oval.
The contrasting results ensured the tournament remains finely balanced, with Bujjagali Rafters, Karuma Rapids, and Itanda Kayakers all level on four points after four matches apiece. With each side having recorded two wins and two losses, net run rate has now become the decisive factor in separating the trio at the top of the standings.
Morning match: Karuma Rapids vs Bujjagali Rafters
Result: Karuma Rapids won by 8 wickets (Duckworth–Lewis Method)
After winning the toss and opting to bowl, Karuma Rapids were put under pressure as Bujjagali Rafters produced a commanding batting display, posting 200 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs.
Fahad Mutagana delivered a standout performance, hammering 86 off 44 balls with seven fours and six sixes in a dominant innings that anchored the Rafters’ total. Robinson Obuya provided steady support with 39 off 39 balls, while Gerald Olipa’s explosive 35 off 14 deliveries added late momentum. Useful cameos from Robert Ajuna and Fred Achelam helped push the score past the 200-run mark.
Karuma’s bowling was led by Cosmas Kyewuta, whose impressive figures of 3 for 21 kept the Rapids in contention. Henry Ssenyondo and Jordan Okecho each claimed a wicket and applied pressure through the middle overs.
Rain interruptions dramatically altered the contest, reducing Karuma’s chase to a revised target of 87 runs from seven overs. The Rapids responded with composure and aggression, spearheaded by Kyewuta’s astonishing unbeaten 31 off just eight balls, featuring four towering sixes. Ronald Lutaaya (16*), Charles Musemeza (17), and Cyrus Kakuru (12) ensured the chase remained on track as Karuma reached 87 for 2 in six overs.
Despite early breakthroughs from Kasaija Enock and Yunus Sowobi, the Rafters were unable to stem the momentum. Kyewuta was deservedly named Player of the Match for his decisive all-round performance.
Afternoon match: Karuma Rapids vs Itanda Kayakers
Result: Itanda Kayakers won by 4 wickets
In the afternoon fixture, Karuma Rapids once again won the toss, this time electing to bat. They posted a competitive 155 for 8, driven by an aggressive 44 off 26 balls from Charles Musemeza, who struck three fours and four sixes. Ismail Munir added 36 off 26 balls, while Paul Mulongo anchored the innings with an unbeaten 37 off 35 deliveries.
However, regular wickets prevented the Rapids from accelerating late. Kenneth Ogenrwot led the Kayakers’ bowling attack with figures of 3 for 27, supported by a miserly spell from Mathew Musinguzi (1 for 18) and a key contribution from captain Christopher Kidega.
Chasing 156, Itanda Kayakers stumbled early, losing three wickets within the first four overs. Steve Wabwose steadied the innings with a vital 46 off 35 balls before Kidega took control with a composed 35 off 23 deliveries. His calm leadership under pressure shifted the momentum firmly in Itanda’s favour.
Pius Oloka sealed the victory in style, blasting an unbeaten 25 off 13 balls as the Kayakers reached the target at 156 for 6 in 17.3 overs. Kenneth Waiswa (2 for 15) and Felix Ochan claimed two wickets each for Karuma, but Itanda’s depth and composure proved decisive. Kidega was named Player of the Match.
Tournament overview
Matchday Three concluded with the competition perfectly poised. All three teams remain locked on four points, a reflection of the closely fought nature of the tournament. Bujjagali Rafters are set for a demanding second double-header in the next round, facing Itanda Kayakers in the morning before taking on Karuma Rapids in the afternoon.
The tournament has already delivered thrilling contests across both shortened and full-length formats, with dramatic finishes, dominant chases, and standout individual performances keeping the title race wide open.
Tournament highlights
Highest team total: Bujjagali Rafters – 243 for 6
Lowest team total: Itanda Kayakers – 30 for 4
Top run-scorer: Gerald Olipa (Bujjagali Rafters) – 174 runs
Leading wicket-taker: Henry Ssenyondo (Karuma Rapids) – 7 wickets
With net run rate now in focus, the next set of fixtures promises even greater intensity as the battle for supremacy continues.
