The Cricket Cranes produced a spirited all-round performance before rain denied them a shot at redemption, as the final match of the Tour against Namibia was abandoned at the High performance Oval in Windhoek last evening.
After a difficult tour, Uganda showed clear signs of growth, particularly with the ball, restricting Namibia to 159 all out in a rain-shortened 35-over contest.
Following a delayed start due to overnight rains, Uganda were asked to bowl first after losing the toss. And despite dropping an early chance, the Cranes responded with discipline.
Uganda’s chase, however, was marred by early controversy as Robinson Obuya was adjudged caught behind off the first ball in a contentious decision.
Despite Namibia’s attempts to force a result, conditions prevented the minimum 20 overs required for a result, and the match was justifiably abandoned.
Uganda fielded a youthful squad, handing opportunities to emerging talents including Gerald Olipa, Anas Baig, and Charles Musemeza, all of whom showed glimpses of promise.
Although Namibia claimed the 50-over series 1-0 and overall tour 3-1, Uganda will take positives from a steadily improving bowling unit and growing squad depth.
Cricket Cranes head coach Steve Tikolo praised the team’s response, saying that 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,” noted Tikolo, who endured a tough start to his third stint with the Cricket Cranes.
Focus now shifts to preparations for the upcoming international assignments, including the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B (Tanzania) and the T20 World Cup qualification (Nigeria) in pathway.
