With the glistening waters of Lake Victoria as a backdrop and an electric home crowd roaring in the stands, Uganda’s Cricket Cranes delivered yet another clinical performance to stay unbeaten in the second edition of the Pearl of Africa (POA) T20 Series, defeating arch-rivals Kenya by six wickets at the Entebbe Cricket Oval.
Dubbed the Migingo Derby, this East African clash held far more than regional bragging rights — it was a litmus test ahead of Sunday’s tournament-defining showdown against the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With momentum firmly in their sails, Uganda’s charge toward World Cup Africa Qualifier glory seems more real than ever.
Kenya won the toss and opted to bat, hoping to unsettle the hosts early. But Uganda, under the sharp guidance of coach Abhay Sharma and the steady leadership of captain Juma Miyaji, responded with tactical discipline and unwavering composure. After Kenya raced to 30/1 in just three overs, the Ugandan bowling unit tightened the screws.
Former Kenyan captain Rakep Patel stood tall with a gritty 37 off 36 deliveries, but wickets tumbled around him as Uganda’s bowlers showcased their depth and control. The spin trio of Cosmas Kyewuta (2/25), Juma Miyaji (2/37), and veteran Frank Nsubuga (1/10) ensured Kenya could only muster 124/8 in their 20 overs — a below-par total given the conditions.
Uganda’s chase started cautiously, with openers Robinson Obuya (17) and Shrideep Mangela (14) crafting a solid base. The innings’ anchor, however, was Raghav Dhawan, whose 32 off 46 balls provided a calm center to Uganda’s pursuit. A brief wobble saw Uganda needing 30 runs off the final four overs — a tense moment for the home fans.
But just as nerves began to ripple through the lakeside venue, Miyaji promoted himself up the order. The move paid off in style.
The captain launched a blistering counterattack — an unbeaten 18 off 7 balls, punctuated by a thunderous six and two crisp boundaries — closing out the chase with 11 balls to spare.
At the other end, Dinesh Nakrani, who had already made his mark with the ball (1/18 in 4 overs), wrapped up an all-round performance with a composed 23 off 20 balls*, earning him the Player of the Match honors.
The stage is now set for a blockbuster finale on Sunday, July 27 at 1:30 PM in Entebbe. Uganda will meet the United Arab Emirates in a match that will not only decide the POA T20 Series champion but also offer a glimpse into Africa’s rising cricket ambitions.
