AFG vs UGA Match Preview

Afghanistan will face Uganda in the fifth game of the T20 World Cup 2024. The game will be held at Providence Stadium in Guyana and will begin at 6:00 AM IST on June 4. On paper, Afghanistan appears to have an easy match, but you never know what will happen when the two teams take the field for their T20 World Cup opener. PNG stunned the West Indies yesterday, and Oman nearly defended a 109-run lead against Namibia. Afghanistan has one of the best teams at its disposal, with quality batters, brilliant pacers, and match-winning spinners, and if they perform to their full potential, they could win the World Cup.

AFG vs UGA Match Details

Afghanistan vs Uganda – 5th Match, T20 World Cup 2024

Venue: Providence Stadium – Providence

Date & Time: 04th June 2024 at 06:00 AM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

AFG vs UGA Venue Stats

AFG vs UGA Pitch Report

The Providence Stadium provides a good batting surface early in the game. The pitch is firm and flat, with plenty of pace and bounce. The ball glides nicely onto the bat, and playing shots will be simple.

AFG vs UGA Weather Report

The weather is expected to remain overcast throughout the day, with some rain showers possible.

AFG vs UGA Last Five Matches

AFG vs UGA Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, warm-up wrap: India vs Bangladesh

AFG vs UGA Probable Playing XIs:

Uganda Probable Playing XIs

Ronak Patel, Robinson Obuya, Simon Ssesazi, Roger Mukasa, Riazat Ali Shah, Brian Masaba (c), Fred Achelam, Dinesh Nakrani, Cosmas Kyewuta, Henry Ssenyondo, Bilal Hassan

Afghanistan Probable Playing XIs

Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan (c), Karim Janat, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi

Topmost Picks for AFG vs UGA Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Uganda

• Simon Ssesazi- He is the team’s leading run scorer in T20I cricket, with over 2000 runs. He is also the only Uganda batter to score a hundred in the format. 
• Dinesh Nakrani- He adds a lot of balance to the side given his all-round skills. Dinesh has scored over 800 runs for the side in addition to his 67 wickets. He will be one of the big game players for Uganda.

Top Picks – Afghanistan

• Rahmanullah Gurbaz- Gurbaz has been one of the biggest match winners for Afghanistan in T20Is. He is highly consistent for the national team and on his day can single handed win a game for his team.
• Noor Ahmed- Uganda batters have not played a lot of cricket against top teams and reading Noor’s left arm spin will be a challenge for them. Noor could pick multiple wickets in the game.

AFG vs UGA Probable Winners:

Afghanistan are the clear favourites to win. The team has a strong batting lineup, which is supported by a potent bowling attack that includes good pacers and outstanding spinners. Uganda could put the Afghan batters under pressure, but scoring runs against three quality spinners would be difficult, so Uganda may not even score 120 runs in the match. We see Afghanistan as the clear favourites. Considering the team combination, Afghanistan are expected to win this match.

Group C of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with a diverse mix of cricketing talent from around the globe set to clash on the field. Group C of the T20 World Cup features an intriguing three-team battle between New Zealand, West Indies, and Afghanistan for the top two spots. Additionally, the presence of Papua New Guinea and Uganda adds the potential for upsets. Each of the top three teams in this group has distinct strengths: New Zealand is a balanced squad, Afghanistan relies more on its bowlers, and West Indies has opted for a batting-heavy side.

Group C Preview

1. West Indies

Led by Rovman Powell, the West Indies team enters the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 with high hopes and a formidable lineup. Despite a lackluster performance in the previous edition, the Caribbean side boasts a balanced squad with several all-rounders and big hitters capable of turning the game on its head.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024, Match 1: USA beat Canada by 7 wickets

Key Players

Rovman Powell

The all-rounder has been in excellent form since taking over captaincy duties in February 2023. The right-hander has enjoyed a promotion up to five in the order and averages close to 40 with a strike rate of 170 since the last World Cup. Powell has a strong preference for facing pace bowling through the death overs, where his strike rate jumps to 197.

Akeal Hosein

Left-arm spinner Hosein has quickly developed into a key part of the West Indies bowling attack. He is a powerplay specialist and has bowled 52% of his overs in this phase since the last World Cup, operating at a quicker and flatter trajectory than most spinners, with 65% of his deliveries above 56 mph. Right-hand batters find Hosein particularly tough to get away; he concedes under eight runs per over against his preferred match-up.

Fixtures

Sun, 2 June 2024 – West Indies v Papua New Guinea, Guyana, 10:30 AM LOCAL
Sat, 8 June 2024 – West Indies v Uganda, Guyana, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Wed, 12 June 2024 – West Indies v New Zealand, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Mon, 17 June 2024 – West Indies v Afghanistan, St. Lucia, 08:30 PM LOCAL

West Indies: Rovman Powell (c), Alzarri Joseph, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd

2. New Zealand

New Zealand approaches the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 with a consistent squad, highlighting their stability and well-roundedness. Led by the seasoned Kane Williamson, the Blackcaps boast a wealth of experience alongside promising young talents like Rachin Ravindra and Finn Allen. With a strong emphasis on team balance, New Zealand features a formidable pace attack led by Trent Boult and Tim Southee, complemented by spin options like Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi.

Key Players

Finn Allen

The right-hander’s boundary-hitting ability in the first half of the innings is phenomenal and will be key in providing the platform to build big totals. His powerplay strike rate of 149 in this World Cup cycle is among the highest of any player in T20 history. He will need to combine his raw power with maturity to turn those cameos into meaningful totals.

Mitch Santner

Left-arm spinner Santner has a phenomenal record in the Caribbean, averaging under 17 with the ball at an economy of 5.5. In no other geographical area in the world does he have a better bowling record? His ability to subtly change his speed, flight, and trajectory will make him tricky to face on potentially helpful tracks. With the hit-and-miss Ish Sodhi providing the high-variance leg-spin for the Kiwis, Santner has to offer reliability and a wicket-taking threat.

Fixtures

Fri, 7 June 2024 – New Zealand v Afghanistan, Guyana, 07:30 PM LOCAL
Wed, 12 June 2024 – New Zealand v West Indies, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Fri, 14 June 2024 – New Zealand v Uganda, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Mon, 17 June 2024 – New Zealand v Papua New Guinea, Trinidad, 10:30 AM LOCAL

New Zealand: Kane Williamson (c), Finn Allen, Trent Boult, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee. Travelling Reserve: Ben Sears

3. Afghanistan

Led by the dynamic Rashid Khan, the team boasts a formidable spin attack featuring the likes of Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Mohammad Nabi. Afghanistan’s recent series victories against Pakistan and Ireland showcase their growing prowess in the shortest format of the game.

Key Players

Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Dynamic opening batter Gurbaz has been plying his trade in various franchise leagues across the globe, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), Major League Cricket (MLC), and ILT20. In the powerplay, he will look to take on seam bowlers down the ground and pounce on any bowlers who overpitch. Since the end of the last World Cup, Gurbaz has more than doubled the number of runs than any other Afghanistan batter (1,504) and achieved this at a strike rate of 143.

Rashid Khan

Widely regarded as the best T20 bowler operating today, Rashid’s skills are in high demand across T20 franchise leagues globally. His brand of fast and direct mystery spin has been puzzling batters over his nine-year international career. Across this World Cup cycle, his wickets have come at an average of just below 20 and at a miserly economy rate of under seven. No bowler has taken more T20 wickets this decade than him.

Fixtures

Mon, 3 June 2024 – Afghanistan v Uganda, Guyana, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Fri, 7 June 2024 – Afghanistan v New Zealand, Guyana, 07:30 PM LOCAL
Thur, 13 June 2024 – Afghanistan v Papua New Guinea, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Mon, 17 June 2024 – Afghanistan v West Indies, St. Lucia, 08:30 PM LOCAL

Afghanistan: Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Ishaq, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Nangyal Kharoti, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik. Reserves: Sediq Atal, Hazratullah Zazai, Saleem Safi

4. Uganda

Uganda’s journey to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 has been nothing short of impressive. Coming off a stellar performance in the Africa region qualifier, where they secured their spot with convincing wins, Uganda enters the tournament with confidence and determination. Led by Brian Masaba, the team brings a blend of experience and emerging talent to the global stage.

Key Players

Simon Ssesazi

Consistent left-hander Ssesazi is his country’s leading run-scorer in T20 internationals and has been the leading run-scorer across all nations in this World Cup cycle. His strike rate has been above 130 against both pace and spin in this time, and his average of 43 against seamers provides great stability at the top of the order.

Alpesh Ramjani

Mumbai-born left-arm spinner Ramjani has taken 70 wickets from his 39 T20Is at an average of just 8.88. He is an all-phase bowler and brings consistency throughout, but through the middle overs, he has taken 33 wickets and concedes just 4.37 runs per over.

Fixtures

Mon, 3 June 2024 – Uganda v Afghanistan, Guyana, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Wed, 5 June 2024 – Uganda v Papua New Guinea, Guyana, 07:30 PM LOCAL
Sat, 8 June 2024 – Uganda v West Indies, Guyana, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Fri, 14 June 2024 – Uganda v New Zealand, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL

Uganda: Brian Masaba (c), Simon Ssesazi, Roger Mukasa, Cosmas Kyewuta, Dinesh Nakrani, Fred Achelam, Kenneth Waiswa, Alpesh Ramjani, Frank Nsubuga, Henry Ssenyondo, Bilal Hassun, Robinson Obuya, Riazat Ali Shah, Juma Miyaji, Ronak Patel. Travelling Reserves: Innocent Mwebaze, Ronald Lutaaya

5. Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea (PNG) arrives at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 with a sense of excitement and ambition. Led by Assadollah Vala, PNG brings a blend of talent and enthusiasm to the tournament. Their unbeaten record in the qualifiers, winning six consecutive matches, underscores their potential as a competitive force on the global stage.

Key Players

Tony Ura

Right-hander Ura is the backbone of the Papua New Guinea team. Opening the batting, Ura has been the leading run-scorer since the last World Cup, and he is the best run-scorer for his country overall in this format. His runs also come quickly – his strike rate of 151 in this cycle is the highest of any PNG batter to face more than 50 balls. He strikes at over 150 against both pace and spin and loves a flying start, striking at 166 in the powerplay. He’s the only PNG batter to have a century in international T20s.

Charles Amini

The leg-spinner has a crucial role as the main spinner in a side that has generally been very pace-heavy. Since the last World Cup, Amini has bowled comfortably more than half of the spin deliveries sent down by PNG, taking 18 wickets. On Caribbean surfaces, his performance will be significant to his side.

Fixtures

Sun, 2 June 2024 – Papua New Guinea v West Indies, Guyana, 10:30 AM LOCAL
Wed, 5 June 2024 – Papua New Guinea v Uganda, Guyana, 07:30 PM LOCAL
Thur, 13 June 2024 – Papua New Guinea v Afghanistan, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Mon, 17 June 2024 – Papua New Guinea v New Zealand, Trinidad, 10:30 AM LOCAL

Papua New Guinea: Assadollah Vala (c), Alei Nao, Chad Soper, CJ Amini, Hila Vare, Hiri Hiri, Jack Gardner, John Kariko, Kabua Vagi Morea, Kipling Doriga, Lega Siaka, Norman Vanua, Sema Kamea, Sese Bau, Tony Ura

Group C Prediction: Top Two Teams

Given their experience and squad strength, New Zealand and the West Indies are the favorites to advance from Group C. Afghanistan has the potential to upset the established order, while Uganda and PNG can spring surprises if they play to their strengths.

The Caribbean conditions, known for their slower pitches, will favor spinners and all-rounders. Teams with strong spin attacks and adaptable batting lineups will have an advantage.

Each team in Group C must capitalize on their strengths and adapt to the conditions to advance. Consistency and strategic play will be key to securing a spot in the Super Eight. From the batting powerhouses of the West Indies to the spin prowess of Afghanistan, the competition promises to be fierce. As the tournament unfolds, cricket fans worldwide will be treated to a spectacular display of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship.

The T20 World Cup 2024 is all set to kick start on June 2nd, promising to be an electrifying tournament with 20 teams vying for the ultimate glory. For the first time, the T20 World Cup will be co-hosted by the USA and the West Indies. This edition is particularly significant as it marks the inclusion of more nations, highlighting the ICC’s efforts to globalize cricket. Among the debutants, Uganda’s participation is a testament to the growing reach of the sport.

Debut of Uganda in T20 World Cup

Uganda’s path to qualification for the T20 World Cup 2024 is a story of determination and hard work. After defeating Zimbabwe in the qualifiers, Uganda secured its spot in the tournament, marking a significant milestone in their cricketing journey.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024: 3 key players to watch out for from South Africa

Uganda’s first match is against the West Indies, a team known for its T20 prowess. This will be a challenging start, but a strong performance can set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament.

3 Uganda’s players to watch out for in T20 World Cup 2024

Uganda’s chances in the tournament will heavily rely on the performances of a few key players who have proven their mettle in international cricket.

1. Bilal Hassan

Bilal Hassan, known as “Billy Blanks,” is a right-arm fast bowler who opens the bowling for Uganda. His ability to take crucial wickets early in the innings makes him a vital asset for the team.

Bilal has taken 65 wickets in 43 T20I innings for Uganda, 44 of which were bowled out dismissals. This places him second on the all-time list for such wickets in T20Is, just behind Rashid Khan.

Bilal’s consistency and ability to deliver under pressure will be crucial for Uganda. His experience and skill set provide the team with a strong foundation in the bowling department.

2. Juma Miyaji

Juma Miyaji, inspired by England’s Jofra Archer, is a fast bowler who has quickly made a name for himself in international cricket. His pace and control are key attributes that strengthen Uganda’s bowling lineup.

Miyaji has captured 34 wickets in just 20 T20I innings, maintaining an impressive economy rate of less than six runs per over. His best figures of 3/7 highlight his ability to perform in crucial matches.

Miyaji’s ability to bowl economically and take wickets at crucial times makes him a linchpin in Uganda’s bowling strategy. His performances will be pivotal in restricting opposition teams to manageable totals.

3. Simon Ssesazi

Simon Ssesazi, a left-handed batsman and wicketkeeper, is another key player for Uganda. Drawing inspiration from Chris Gayle, Ssesazi’s aggressive batting style is crucial for setting competitive totals.

With over 2,000 runs in 76 T20I innings, including one century, Ssesazi has proven his capability as a consistent run-scorer. His average of over 30 underscores his importance in the batting lineup.

Ssesazi’s role at the top of the order is to provide strong starts and build solid partnerships. His aggressive approach can put pressure on the opposition and set a strong foundation for Uganda’s innings.

Uganda’s strength lies in its balanced bowling attack, with players like Bilal Hassan and Juma Miyaji leading the charge. The team also boasts emerging batting talents like Simon Ssesazi, who can turn the game around with their performances.

As the world of cricket is evolving globally, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken measures to enhance the sport’s reach. Be it through quirky promotional strategies or tournament formats, they have done it all to achieve it.

The upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024, which will be held in the West Indies and USA, acts as the byproduct of it. With over 20 teams and five groups, it will be exciting and intense to watch how the tournament goes on, especially from the nine associate teams, who are up to display their promising game. Here’s a list of the 2024 T20 World Cup associate members’ team captains.

1. United States of America: Monank Patel

Born in Gujarat, India, Monank Patel has been one of the robust batters of the USA cricketing arsenal. In his 25-match T20I stint, he has scored 441 runs at an average of 22.1. He started his initial cricketing days for the Gujarat Cricket team, where he has represented as a batter in the Under-16 & Under-19 squads.

His captaincy has flummoxed the Bangladesh side, leading to a series win against them recently. This impressive track record makes him an interesting key player to watch out for in the tournament, sparking excitement among cricket enthusiasts.

2. Namibia: Gerhard Erasmus 

Gerhard Erasmus will represent Namibia as a captain in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. Kickstarting his career for the country way back in 2011, Erasmus has played a pivotal role in being the all-rounder face for the team.

In his 57 T20I matches, he has scored 1339 runs at an average of 32.66, while he has scalped 43 wickets at an economy of 5.1. In addition, he has won the 2022 ICC Associate Cricketer of the Year, which sets him to lead from the front for his side in the coming clashes.

3. Canada: Saad Bin Zafar

Canada would debut in the T20 World Cup tournament format, with Saad Bin Zafar leading the team. He has been one of the most reliable pacers in the team’s bowling attack. He comes in during the middle overs and delivers some economical overs, putting pressure on the hitters and taking up wickets.

Zafar can also score runs from later down the order, so having him on the team may ensure you score in both innings. In his 38-match T20I stint, he has scalped 43 wickets at a commendable pacer’s economy of 6.44.

4. Oman: Aqib Ilyas

Oman’s captain, Aqib Ilyas, hails from Sialkot, Pakistan, where he got his craze taste towards the sport of cricket. Predominant for his all-rounding abilities, the captain will use his bat and ball skills to keep the team together.

The 31-year-old was named the Player of the Series in the Asia Qualifiers and is one of the squad’s most seasoned members, and he will rely on that expertise in the tournament. Sulehri’s efficacy as an all-rounder makes him a must-have for the Oman team. In 48 T20Is, he has made 1176 runs at an average of 28.68 and 37 wickets at an economy of 5.93.

5. Uganda: Brian Masaba

Brian Masaba will be leading the Ugandan side in the upcoming tournament. Calling it a ‘Dream come True’ moment for his team, it wouldn’t be a surprise for an associate member like Uganda to give its best on the cricket field amongst its top-notch competitors.

The 32-year-old cricketer has played 57 T20I matches, scoring 433 runs at an average of 19, and scalped 18 wickets at an economy of 5.26.

Also Read: Know everything about India’s 2024 T20 World Cup warm-up match

6. Papua New Guinea: Assadollah Vala

Assadollah Vala is Papua New Guinea’s T20 World Cup 2024 captain. He is one of the team’s most experienced players, able to contribute with both the bat and the ball.

Vala was PNG’s second-highest run-scorer in the East Asia Pacific Qualifiers held last year. The left-hander enjoys batting long and can put up huge numbers. Furthermore, he is a skilled off-spinner. Throughout his 59-match stint, he scored 1244 runs and took 34 key wickets.

7. Netherlands: Scott Edwards

The Dutch cricket side would be under the captaincy of wicketkeeper batter Scott Edwards. Edwards’ batting is defined by elegance rather than power, as he frustrates fields with aggressive running and various sweeps and reverses.

His leadership has led the Netherlands to unprecedented success, including a top-eight performance at the 2022 T20 World Cup and direct qualifying for the following edition. In 60 T20I appearances, he has scored 737 runs with a strike rate of 120 and an average of 20.

8. Nepal: Rohit Paudel

Rohit Paudel is a 21-year-old young and emerging player who is all set to lead an experienced campaign of the Nepal cricket team in its second T20 World Cup appearance. Paudel, a youthful and skilled batter, is one of Nepal’s most consistent hitters.

Paudel, a youthful and skilled batter, is one of Nepal’s most consistent hitters. The 21-year-old will most likely bat at No. 3 and bear much responsibility for the Nepal team’s success. In his 59 appearances, he has 1442 runs at an average of 33.53 with a strike rate of 133.

9. Scotland: Richie Berrington

Born in Pretoria, South Africa, Richie Berrington is synonymous with being an experienced candidate and leader for the Scotland Cricket team. The 37-year-old all-rounder is prominent for his ball-striking ability. Also, his ability to give the ball a bit of seam and medium pace is another speciality of cricketing skills.

It is no surprise that the associate member of Scotland would utilise the experience quotient of their captain. In his colossal 112 T20I matches campaign, he has made 2628 runs at an average of 30.91 and scalped 36 wickets at an economy of 7.68.

The Uganda cricket team is on the brink of a significant milestone as they prepare to debut in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. This tournament represents a golden opportunity for Uganda to showcase their talent on the global stage. Despite a modest track record in T20 cricket over the past two years, the team, under the leadership of Brian Masaba, is geared up to make a strong statement.

Historical Background

Uganda’s first independent participation in an ICC tournament was the 2001 ICC Trophy in Canada. Despite consistent participation, Uganda has struggled to qualify for major ICC events until their breakthrough in the 2023 Africa Qualifier, earning their spot in the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Recent Performance in T20 Cricket

Uganda has played 80 T20 matches in the past two years, securing 30 wins. This performance highlights the team’s potential but also underscores areas needing improvement. Uganda’s journey to the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 was marked by a closely contested qualification campaign in Africa. The team, led by Brian Masaba, showcased resilience and skill, with standout performances from players like Alpesh Ramjani and Frank Nsubuga.

See Also: Team India’s journey in T20 World Cup since 2007

Squad Overview

The Uganda squad for the ICC T20 World Cup is a blend of experience and youth. Key players include the seasoned Frank Nsubuga, an all-rounder known for his fearless bowling, and young talents like Juma Miyaji, who impressed in the 2022 U-19 World Cup. The aggressive batting styles of Riazat Ali Shah and Dinesh Nakrani add depth to the lineup, making Uganda a team to watch.

SWOT Analysis of Uganda’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad

Strengths

Uganda’s strengths lie in its talented all-rounders and experienced campaigners. Frank Nsubuga, the oldest player in the tournament at 43, brings a wealth of experience and composure.

Alpesh Ramjani and Riazat Ali Shah are crucial for their all-round capabilities, while young Juma Miyaji adds fresh energy and potential. The team’s performance in the qualifiers demonstrated their ability to compete under pressure, a valuable asset in the World Cup.

Individually, players like Alpesh Ramjani and Riazat Ali Shah are game-changers with their aggressive batting and handy bowling. Frank Nsubuga’s invaluable experience and leadership provide stability and strategic insight.

Weaknesses

A significant area for improvement for Uganda is their lack of experience at the highest level of international cricket. Unlike established teams, Ugandan players have limited exposure to high-pressure situations in major tournaments.

To overcome their inexperience, Uganda must focus on mental and tactical preparation. The team needs to develop strategies to handle high-pressure situations and improve consistency.

Enhancing their middle-order batting and refining their bowling attack will be crucial for success. Learning from past mistakes and adapting quickly to the demands of the tournament will be essential.

Opportunities

The 2024 T20 World Cup allows Uganda to put their cricket on the global map. Success in this tournament can inspire a new generation of cricketers in Uganda and boost the sport’s popularity and development.

Additionally, strong performances can attract attention from global T20 leagues, offering players invaluable experience and exposure. A strong World Cup showing for Ugandan cricket can boost the sport’s profile and attract more young talent, fostering the next generation of cricketers.

Threats

Uganda faces formidable threats from established cricketing powerhouses like India, England, and Australia. These teams have deep, experienced squads and are accustomed to the pressures of World Cup cricket.

Competing against such formidable opponents will be a steep learning curve. Moreover, the volatile nature of T20 cricket means that a single bad performance can dramatically impact their campaign.

To succeed, Uganda must adopt a fearless and adaptive approach. Emphasizing teamwork, focusing on mental toughness, and honing their tactical game will be critical.

Uganda’s Squad: Brian Masaba (c), Simon Ssesazi, Roger Mukasa, Cosmas Kyewuta, Dinesh Nakrani, Fred Achelam, Kenneth Waiswa, Alpesh Ramjani, Frank Nsubuga, Henry Ssenyondo, Bilal Hassun, Robinson Obuya, Riazat Ali Shah (vc), Juma Miyaji, Ronak Patel. Travelling Reserves: Innocent Mwebaze, Ronald Lutaaya

Uganda, the East African cricketing nation, is gearing up for its inaugural appearance in a senior men’s ICC World Cup. The 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup, set to be hosted in the USA and the West Indies, marks a historic moment for Ugandan cricket. Leading this journey is Brian Masaba, who assumes the pivotal role of captaincy.

Squad Composition: A Blend of Experience and Youth

The squad comprises 15 talented individuals, each bringing a unique skill set. Notably, the inclusion of 43-year-old Frank Nsubuga adds experience, making him the oldest player in the tournament. Vice-captain Riazat Ali Shah complements Masaba’s leadership, while Ronald Lutaaya and Innocent Mwebaze stand ready as reserve players.

See Also: Watch: Suryakumar turns the tide with his usual big-hitting prowess

Inclusions and Exclusions: Strategic Decisions

Uganda’s squad reflects strategic choices, with five changes from the previous qualifiers. Notable exclusions include Cyrus Kakuru and Pascal Murungi, whom Fred Achelam and Juma Miyagi replaced. These decisions underscore the selectors’ emphasis on performance and adaptability.

Ugandan players have shone brightly in recent tournaments, dominating both bat and ball. Names like Roger Mukasa, Simon Ssesazi, and Dinesh Nakrani have etched their mark on the run charts, while Alpesh Ramjani and Juma Miyagi have been formidable with the ball. Their performances instil confidence as Uganda steps onto the global stage.

Abhay Sharma is Guiding Uganda’s T20 World Cup campaign, whose wealth of experience breathes new life into the team. As a former Indian first-class cricketer and coach, Sharma brings invaluable insights, enhancing Uganda’s strategic approach and tactical understanding.

Group Dynamics: Facing the Giants

Uganda finds itself in Group C alongside formidable opponents like Afghanistan, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and the West Indies. This diverse mix of teams promises thrilling encounters and allows Uganda to test its mettle against cricketing giants.

Uganda’s journey starts with a match against Afghanistan in Providence, Guyana, on June 4. This inaugural clash sets the stage for Uganda’s T20 World Cup campaign, offering fans a glimpse of the team’s potential on

Uganda squad: 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 Miyaji

Reserve players: Ronald Lutaaya, Innocent Mwebaze