The Uganda Cricket Cranes have officially departed for Hong Kong, China, ahead of the second round of the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B, set to take place from February 4th to 16th.
Before the tournament begins, the team is scheduled to participate in a 50-over tri-series with hosts Hong Kong and Bahrain from January 28th to February 3rd.
The tri-series will provide the Cricket Cranes with vital match practice and a chance to acclimatize to the conditions in Hong Kong, which are expected to feature slower pitches.
The Cricket Cranes, led by captain Riazat Ali Shah, are currently atop the six-team standings with nine points, holding a slim two-point lead over Hong Kong and Italy.
Maintaining their lead will be key as they aim to secure qualification to the next stage of the competition.
The squad features a blend of seasoned players and emerging talent, with the likes of Henry Ssenyondo, Alpesh Ramjani, and veteran Frank Nsubuga expected to play a pivotal role in the spin-friendly conditions.
New additions Joseph Baguma and Cyrus Kakuru are also poised to make an impact, strengthening the spin and wicketkeeping departments, respectively.
The team’s fixtures in the ICC Challenge League B include crucial clashes against Bahrain, Singapore, Italy, Hong Kong, and Tanzania.