Uganda’s tour of Namibia ended with a rain-affected stalemate as the Cricket Cranes produced an improved all-round display before the final 50-over match in Windhoek was abandoned, handing the hosts a 1-0 series win and a 3-1 overall tour result.
In a reduced 35-overs-per-side contest at the High Performance Oval, Namibia national cricket team were bowled out for 159 in 30 overs, with Joseph Baguma leading the effort with 4 for 42. Bilal Hassun supported with 2 for 17 as Uganda national cricket team showed marked discipline, conceding just one extra after leaking 27 in the previous match.
Uganda were asked to field after losing the toss following a delayed start due to overnight rain. Captain Riazat Ali Shah set the tone early with a run-out and the wicket of Jan Frylinck to leave Namibia at 40 for 2 inside 10 overs. Gerhard Erasmus (44) and Malan Kruger (41) attempted to rebuild, but regular pressure and Baguma’s middle-overs spell ensured the hosts never broke free.
Chasing 160, Uganda’s reply was disrupted immediately by a contentious first-ball dismissal of Robinson Obuya. Gerald Olipa (17) and Simon Ssesazi (11) tried to steady the innings, but further setbacks left the visitors 35 for 4. Kenneth Waiswa and Anas Baig began a cautious rebuild before rain forced the players off at 53 for 4 in 19 overs. With the minimum overs not met, the match was abandoned.
Head coach Steve Tikolo pointed to clear progress, saying, “The improvement with the ball was clear. From giving away 27 extras in the previous game to just one today shows discipline and growth. The fight was there, even with the bat as guys showed willingness to hang in there and that’s what we want to build on.”
Namibia head coach Craig Williams also noted Uganda’s trajectory, adding, “Uganda has improved. You can see the structure coming through. What they need now is hunger and consistency. With the right mindset, they have a real chance in upcoming ICC competitions.”
Vice-captain Juma Miyaji described the tour as a learning curve, highlighting the need for stronger batting partnerships despite encouraging signs from the bowling unit.
Uganda fielded a youthful squad, with emerging players such as Gerald Olipa, Anas Baig, and Charles Musemeza gaining valuable exposure.
Attention now turns to upcoming assignments, including the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B in Tanzania and T20 World Cup qualification in Nigeria.
