Cricket

Uganda's historic World Cup debut on Monday against Afghanistan carries the weight of a nation's aspirations. Captain Brian Masaba acknowledges the immense responsibility, stating, "We carry a whole country's hopes on our backs."Uganda's qualification journey through the Africa Qualifier, where they defeated Zimbabwe and finished second, has ignited excitement both within the team and back home. Masaba emphasizes the significance of this achievement, not only for cricket but for all sports in Uganda.To prepare for the World Cup, Uganda embarked on tours to Sri Lanka and India, as well as intensive intra-squad games. Masaba believes these efforts have equipped the team to face the challenges ahead.Despite being placed in a tough group alongside West Indies, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea, Uganda draws inspiration from PNG's close match against West Indies. Masaba notes, "It shows that the gap is not as huge as people want to believe."Masaba highlights the promising young fast-bowling duo of Juma Miyagi and Cosmas Kyewuta, as well as the seasoned all-rounder Riazat Ali Shah. He emphasizes the team's collective strength, stating, "It's not super reliant on any one person."Uganda's World Cup debut is a testament to the growing strength of cricket in Africa. Masaba expresses his hope that this platform will provide opportunities for young talent and inspire future generations.

Uganda's Cricket Cranes are poised to make their historic debut at the T20 World Cup, a testament to their unwavering determination and the growing popularity of cricket in the East African nation. Despite being overshadowed by football, cricket has taken root in Uganda, thanks to its introduction by British settlers and the influx of Indian laborers.The Cranes, clad in their vibrant red kit, are undergoing rigorous training under the guidance of their new head coach, Abhay Sharma. Time is of the essence as they prepare to face formidable opponents like New Zealand, West Indies, Afghanistan, and Papua New Guinea.Captain Brian Masaba, ranked second in T20 international wins, is optimistic about the team's chances. "If we can pick up a couple of wins, it would be a huge bonus," he said. "But more importantly, the World Cup gives Uganda a platform to showcase our country."Juma Miyagi, a 21-year-old rising star, hopes the World Cup will not only boost Ugandan cricket but also propel his own international career. "I come from the ghetto," he said. "I would like to see myself in one of the biggest leagues in the world and maybe helping out my family."Veteran all-rounder Frank Nsubuga, at 43, is the elder statesman of the squad. "Having been playing for the last 27 years, I'm very excited to have qualified for the World Cup," he said. "It was my dream and it has come true."Coach Sharma, with his wealth of global experience, is confident in the team's abilities. "We are going step by step," he said. "We are working on their skill sets and mindset."While expectations are high, Sharma remains realistic. "This is a young team and it is a baby of global cricket," he said. "But they are in good shape and expectations are high."The Cricket Cranes' journey to the T20 World Cup is a testament to their passion, perseverance, and the growing popularity of cricket in Uganda. Their performance on the global stage will not only inspire a new generation of cricketers but also showcase the nation's sporting prowess.

Uganda has made history by qualifying for its first-ever senior men's ICC World Cup in any format, with the team set to participate in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. Brian Masaba will lead the 15-man squad as captain, while Riazat Ali Shah has been named vice-captain.The Ugandan team includes a mix of experienced and emerging players, with 43-year-old Frank Nsubuga set to become the oldest player in the tournament. Nsubuga, an offspinning allrounder, brings a wealth of experience to the side.Uganda's qualification for the T20 World Cup is a testament to the growth of cricket in the country. The team emerged victorious from the Africa leg of the qualifiers, defeating strong teams like Zimbabwe.In the 2024 T20 World Cup, Uganda will face a tough challenge in Group C, which includes Afghanistan, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and the West Indies. The team will play its first match against Afghanistan in Providence, Guyana on June 4.The Ugandan squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup is as follows:* Brian Masaba (capt)* Riazat Ali Shah (vc)* Kenneth Waiswa* Dinesh Nakrani* Frank Nsubuga* Ronak Patel* Roger Mukasa* Cosmas Kyewuta* Bilal Hassun* Fred Achelam* Robinson Obuya* Simon Ssesazi* Henry Ssenyondo* Alpesh Ramjani* Juma MiyajiReserve players:* Ronald Lutaaya* Innocent MwebazeUganda's participation in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup is a significant milestone for the country's cricket development. The team will be looking to make a strong impression on the world stage and inspire future generations of Ugandan cricketers.