The Cricket Cranes are set for their debut appearance at the 2024 ICC T20 Cricket World Cup, scheduled for June 1-29 in the West Indies and United States.
Pitted against two-time winners and hosts West Indies, Papua New Guinea, Afghanistan, and New Zealand in Group C, the team has undergone six months of intensive training, including camps in Sri Lanka and India, and competing in this year’s African Games as part of their preparation.
The Abhay Sharma-coached side is captained by Brian Masaba, with Riazat Ali Shah as vice-captain. The squad also includes Kenneth Waiswa, Dinesh Nakrani, Ronak Patel, Roger Mukasa, Cosmas Kyewuta, Bilal Hassun, Fred Achelam, Robinson Obuya, Simon Ssesazi, Henry Ssenyondo, Alpesh Ramjani, and Juma Miyagi.
At a ceremony held today in Lugogo, State Minister for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang flagged off the team, joined by National Council of Sports General Secretary Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel and Uganda Cricket Association Chairman Michael Nuwagaba, who both challenged the team to deliver a memorable performance on the global stage.
Ogwang expressed his confidence in the team’s abilities, stating, “It’s about facing the battle and keeping your minds in the game. The sports sub-sector is on the right trajectory, and you as cricketers have made us proud.”
Uganda Cricket Association Chairman Michael Nuwagaba highlighted the long journey to this moment.
“We started this journey five years ago and we are now at the climax. We are representing the country and Africa as a whole. We are one of three African countries at the tournament,” Nuwagaba revealed.
Captain Brian Masaba shared his excitement and pride, stating; “Playing at the World Cup is a huge honor. My job as captain is to get the guys focused on the task at hand. We are going out there to win games and focus on the process without worrying about the results.”
The team will depart for Guyana tomorrow, Wednesday 22nd and will participate in two warm-up games against Namibia on May 28 and Scotland on May 30 before opening their World Cup campaign against Afghanistan on June 4 at the Providence Stadium.
