The cricket world is abuzz with anticipation as Uganda prepares to make its ICC Men’s T20 World Cup debut. Their 15-man squad led by captain Brian Masaba has been officially announced and the Cricket Cranes are ready to take on the Group C challenge.
Experienced leadership and experience
Masaba is ably supported by vice-captain Riazat Ali Shah and the squad features several players with over a decade of international experience. One notable figure is 43-year-old Frank Nsubuga, who will be one of the oldest players in the tournament.
Nsubuga’s selection is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport. He first represented Uganda in ICC events at the tender age of 17 and took part in the 1997 ICC Trophy, a preliminary event leading to the 1999 Cricket World Cup. His selection for the T20 World Cup marks a remarkable 25-year journey.
Spin bowling all-rounders and rising stars
In addition to experienced veterans, Uganda’s squad also includes exciting young talents. Spin bowling all-rounder Alpesh Ramjani, who has been nominated for the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year 2023 award, is expected to continue his impressive form. Last year, he was the leading wicket-taker in men’s T20I cricket, claiming 55 wickets at an exceptional economy rate. Henry Ssenyondo, also a left-arm spinner, is another important player who took 49 wickets in 2023.
Riazat Ali Shah and Dinesh Nakrani add firepower to the batting line-up, while youngster Juma Miyaji brings valuable experience from the 2022 U19 World Cup in the West Indies.
A historic moment for Ugandan cricket
Although this is Uganda’s first appearance at a senior World Cup, the country has a rich cricketing history and has competed in global events with the now-defunct East African team that competed in the 1975 Cricket World Cup. Samuel Walusimbi, the only Ugandan player in this squad, appeared in three games.
The Cricket Cranes begin their T20 World Cup journey on June 3 when they face Afghanistan in Guyana. The entire nation will stand behind them and strive to make a lasting impression on the global cricket stage.
Uganda’s squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup: Brian Masaba (c), Simon Ssesazi, Roger Mukasa, Cosmas Kyewuta, Dinesh Nakrani, Fred Achelam, Kenneth Waiswa, Alpesh Ramjani, Frank Nsubuga, Henry Ssenyondo, Bilal Hassun, Robinson Obuya, Riazat Ali Shah (vc), Juma Miyaji, Ronak Patel.
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