By Daniel Nyeko
Uganda’s hopes of reaching the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup took another hit after a nine–run defeat to Tanzania at the Takashinga Cricket Club in Harare on Sunday.
Having won the toss and elected to bowl, Uganda restricted Tanzania to 128 for 6 in 20 overs. Mukesh Sutha top–scored with a composed 45 off 32 balls, while Abhik Patwa added a quick 30 from 17.
Spinner Joseph Baguma impressed for Uganda, conceding just 18 runs in his four overs at an economy of 4.5, while Alpesh Ramjani and Cosmas Kyewuta took two wickets apiece.
The chase began brightly as Ronald Lutaaya smashed 17 from eight balls, but Tanzania’s Ally Kimote (2 for 31) removed him early and slowed the innings.
Raghav Dhawan anchored the reply with 39 off 37 balls, supported by Tomar Gaurav (18 off 20) and Dinesh Nakrani (14 off 18), yet Uganda fell short at 119 for 9. Khalidy Juma was the difference, tearing through the middle order to claim 4 for 13.
After the defeat, Uganda Cricket Association chairman Jackson Kavuma urged calm and perspective.
“While we may have fallen short of our immediate goal, our vision and direction remain firmly on course,” he said, stressing the need for a “clear–eyed analysis” and long–term planning.
“This setback must not define our team. One difficult tournament does not erase the progress and hard work invested over the years.”
Uganda now turn their attention to Botswana, whom they face on September 30 at 10:30 a.m. EAT at the same venue.
