For those familiar with the game of cricket the name Uganda is likely to come across as a surprise. For certain others, including yours truly, this is the first introduction to this East African nation as a cricketing unit. Whilst many in the cricketing world are more familiar with its older cricketing neighbor, Kenya, the new kids on the block are the Ugandans.
One of three African nations in the competition, Uganda is making its first entry into an International ICC competition in its cricketing history. So this is a momentous occasion no matter the results they eventually achieve by the end of their tournament. And after that thrashing received at the hands of the Afghan team, the Ugandans picked themselves up and registered their first win of the tournament.
Uganda – Doing Better than the Opposition On the Day
Cricket is often a game of small margins. Like any competitive sport, what matters is that you play fairly and ultimately win. Big wins and comprehensive performances are no doubt a welcome addition but getting the result against the opposition is what matters. And that is exactly what the Ugandans did against the team from Papua New Guinea.
Going up against fellow minnows, both teams would have seemed like an unknown quantity. Whilst New Guinea did challenge the strong West Indian side in their defeat a few days ago, in the game against the East African side the game became something of a coin toss, of which team would perform better (or worse) on the day.
Having bundled out the opposition for just 77, with 9 wickets spread across 5 bowlers, with Juma Miyagi leading the way with 2 for 10 in his allotted 4 overs. The Papua New Guinea side never came to terms with the game. So once the total was posted, the question was can the opposition surpass it?
Uganda’s Chase – A Measured One
In games like this, it is tempting to conclude that a certain total is ‘big’, ‘competitive’, ‘small’ etc. However, when we are dealing with newcomers to the International game it is always going to be a gamble who the best team on the day or night is going to be.
Whilst the target of 78 was by no means imposing, for the Ugandan side, fresh in the International scene it could have meant several things. Things went off to a rocky start with the first 3 wickets falling for 6 runs in the 3rd over. Then entered Riazat Ali Shah the right-handed batsman who has showcased some promise in the past. And he set about consolidating the innings.
When chasing a small target like 77 all it needs is one solid partnership or one player to go all the way with other batters to stick around and provide support. And that is what Ugandans got with a man-of-the-match performance by Riazat Ali Shah, who in a measured innings was able to lead his team to victory in the 19th over.
About the Author
Damian Thar writes on a range of topics. In addition to his professional work, he writes essays on subjects like philosophy, history, and culture. He also writes and edits books and in his free time, he makes YouTube videos on topics like religion, theology, and current events. You can find his work here.
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