Match Outcome
Uganda 148/6 in 20 overs
Rwanda 98/9 in 20 overs
Uganda gained by 50 runs
Fred Achelam’s captaincy debut proved profitable as Uganda triumphed over Rwanda by 50 runs within the ILT20 Continental Cup in Kigali.
The match was vital for each groups, because it additionally marked the farewell of Rwanda’s veteran captain, Eric Dusingizimana, who performed his last recreation in Rwandan colours.
With common skipper Riazat Ali Shah rested, Achelam took cost of the Ugandan aspect.
Uganda’s innings started on a rocky observe, shedding early wickets as Simon Ssesazi and Robinson Obuya departed cheaply.
At 42/2 after six overs and 61/5 after 10 overs, the group struggled to construct momentum.
An important 72-run partnership between Alpesh Ramjani (45 off 27) and Fred Achelam (27 off 23) steadied the innings.
Ramjani later reached a well-deserved half-century, ending with 51 off 35 balls.
Uganda managed to put up a aggressive 148/6 in 20 overs regardless of a difficult pitch.
Nadir Mohammed was the standout bowler for Rwanda, taking three wickets whereas sustaining a wonderful financial system fee of 4 runs per over.
In response, Rwanda’s chase faltered underneath Uganda’s disciplined bowling assault. By the tenth over, Rwanda was struggling at 36/4.
Eric Dusingizimana, in his farewell innings, scored 10 off 13 balls, however his aspect managed solely 98/9 of their 20 overs.
Uganda’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Juma Miyaji, Henry Ssenyondo, Dinesh Nakrani, and Joseph Baguma taking two wickets every.
Uganda’s head coach highlighted the choice at hand the captaincy to Achelam in at the moment’s recreation, explaining that the group is exploring management choices.
“We’re attempting to determine good leaders among the many gamers. Juma Miyaji was vice-captain throughout the PNG sequence, and at the moment we gave Achelam an opportunity since wicketkeepers typically have a great view of the sport.”
Achelam expressed combined emotions after his first win as captain, acknowledging the group’s shaky batting efficiency however celebrating the victory.
In the meantime, Eric Dusingizimana’s 16-year cricket profession ended on a poignant observe.
Having represented Rwanda since 2008, he obtained a standing ovation from each groups.
In a touching gesture, he was offered with a portrait of his jersey quantity 51 by his spouse, Sonia Uwimana, and Rwanda Cricket Affiliation President Steven Musaale.
Uganda returns to motion tomorrow in opposition to Botswana, whereas Rwanda faces Nigeria in a must-win match to maintain their last hopes alive
Picture Credit: Ishimwe Abdoulkahal
