By Daniel Nyeko
Uganda’s Cricket Cranes were given a sharp reminder of the work ahead after a four-wicket defeat to the Supersport Titans XI at Tuks Cricket Oval in Pretoria on Wednesday. The loss came just a day after Uganda sealed a 2-0 series win over Lions XI.
Opting to bat first, Uganda collapsed to 89 all out in 17.1 overs. Robinson Obuya offered brief resistance with 38 runs off 33 balls, while former U19 captain Juma Miyagi added 16 from 23 and Shrideep Mangela chipped in 14 from 13.
The Titans XI, a side linked to South Africa’s renowned Momentum Multiply Titans franchise, chased the target with ease. Nathan Trevethan led the reply with 44 from 36 balls and Divan de Villiers struck 22 off 15 as the hosts reached 90 for six in 17 overs.
Head coach Abhay Sharma called the performance “a poor score” but saw positives in the fight shown. “The wicket was on the lower side of the Oval, but being bowled out for 90 is not enough,” Sharma said. Obuya echoed the sentiment, noting the need for stronger partnerships: “We have to find solutions to build stands and give our bowlers something to defend.”
The setback comes as Uganda prepares for the ICC T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers in Harare, Zimbabwe, running from September 26 to October 4.
Strong batting displays will be critical if the Cranes are to push for a spot at the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled for India and Sri Lanka.
