Uganda’s Cricket Cranes begin their 50-over series against Namibia today in Windhoek, turning the page quickly after losing the preceding T20 series 2-1.
The ODI opener on March 23 offers an immediate chance for Uganda to reset following Sunday’s 98-run defeat in the decisive third T20, where Namibia sealed the series with a dominant all-round display.
In that match, Namibia posted 169/6 in 20 overs, powered by Louren Steenkamp’s 82, before bowling Uganda out for 71 in 16.5 overs. Cosmas Kyewuta (2/21) and Juma Miyaji (3/32) impressed with the ball, but the batting unit collapsed under sustained pressure from Namibia’s seam attack, led by Max Heingo (4/9) and Ruben Trumpelmann (2/7).
Uganda had shown signs of control early in Namibia’s innings through disciplined new-ball spells, but missed chances and extras allowed the hosts to recover and build a competitive total. The chase never settled, slipping from 19 without loss into a collapse that exposed fragility in the top order.
Captain Riazat Ali Shah admitted the shortcomings after the defeat, saying: “It’s a tough result, but an important learning experience. We had moments with the ball, but we didn’t take responsibility with the bat.”
Head coach Steve Tikolo was more direct about the batting concerns: “One of the top four has to take responsibility and bat deep. That’s something we must correct immediately. It is a clear indication that there’s work to be done for the whole unit and I am happy to get to it when we return to Uganda after this practice tour. I have some particular drills I will inculcate into the system for the batsmen to make them better.”
The switch to the 50-over format now presents Uganda with a different test, one that demands longer concentration with the bat and more structured innings building. It also provides an opportunity for the top order to address the issues highlighted in the T20 series.
The two-match ODI series continues on March 25, with both Uganda and Namibia using the fixtures as part of their build-up toward qualification pathways for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Uganda squad: Riazat Ali Shah (captain), Robinson Obuya, Simon Ssesazi, Anas Mirza Baig, Kenneth Waiswa, Cyrus Kakuru, Charles Musemeza, Juma Miyaji, Cosmas Kyewuta, Bilal Hassun, Henry Ssenyondo, Joseph Baguma, Mathew Musinguzi and Gerald Olipa.
