Entebbe, Uganda | July 23, 2025 – Uganda A showcased immense grit and composure to clinch a thrilling three-run victory over Namibia A in their second and final match of their Pearl of Africa A T20 bilateral Series at the picturesque Entebbe Cricket Oval.
The hard-fought win saw the youthful Ugandan outfit level the series 1-1, having lost the opener by two runs in another low-scoring nail-biter last Thursday.
Match Summary – Game 2 – Bilateral Series
Uganda A: 127/8 in 20 overs (A Baig 45, C Watuwa 21; J Balt 2/16, M Heingo 2/28)
Namibia A: 124/7 in 20 overs (L Bassom 25, S Shikongo 23, K Waiswa 3/28, M Musinguzi 1/14)
Result: Uganda A won by 3 runs
Player of the Match: Anas Baig – 45 off 31 balls (3 fours & 2 sixes)
Next Matches – Friday, July 25 – Entebbe Oval
9.30am: Uganda vs. Kenya
1.30pm: Nigeria vs. Namibia A
Sent in to bat first after skipper Pascal Murungi won the toss, Uganda A found their anchor in 19-year-old Anas Baig, son of former national captain Akbar Baig. The stylish top-order batter struck a composed yet aggressive 45 off 31 deliveries, laced with three boundaries and two sixes, to build the innings’ foundation.
Cricket Cranes debutant Calvin Watuwa added a breezy 21 off 17 balls, helping Uganda A post a competitive 127 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs despite disciplined Namibian bowling led by skipper Jan Balt (2/16).
In defence, Uganda A’s bowlers held their nerve under mounting pressure. Slow left-arm orthodox spinner Mathew Musinguzi was miserly with figures of 1/14 in four overs, while off-spinner Siraje Nsubuga chipped in with 1/25 to strangle Namibia A’s middle order.
But it was experienced medium pacer Kenneth Waiswa, who turned the tide in the death overs, claiming 3 wickets for 28 runs to stall Namibia A’s charge. The visitors finished agonisingly close at 124 for 7, handing Uganda A a memorable three-run win.
Assistant Coach Roger Mukasa was elated with his charges’ character and maturity.
“These games are about learning to handle pressure situations. We are building the future of Cricket Uganda Cricket here, and it is great to see the young boys show character and execute plans under pressure. I was more especially impressed with the fighting spirit as they defended the runs,” said Mukasa.
“Going forward, we want to request the association to ensure these guys continue to play more of such fixtures to bridge the gap with the main team.”
Veteran all-rounder Kenneth Waiswa, drafted in to guide the youthful unit and gain some much-needed form, emphasised the importance of this win.
“Playing with these young guys has been a great experience. You can see their passion and courage. The way they fought today shows they have what it takes to step up when needed. These games are the way to go.”
The Pearl of Africa T20I Series continues at Entebbe Oval with the senior national men’s squad – The Cricket Cranes squad returning to action on Friday morning in another eagerly anticipated Migingo Derby clash against Kenya. Uganda, unbeaten after four matches, sit atop the standings as the race for the championship trophy intensifies ahead of Sunday’s grand finale.
Points Table – Pearl of Africa T20 Series – After Matchday Six
|
Team |
Played |
Won |
Lost |
Tied |
No Result |
Points |
NRR |
|
Uganda |
4 |
4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
8 |
1.910 |
|
UAE |
4 |
3 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
6 |
2.480 |
|
Kenya |
4 |
1 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
-1.260 |
|
Nigeria |
4 |
0 |
4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
-3.496 |
|
Namibia A |
4 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
0.449 |
|
Uganda A |
2 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0.025 |
NB: In yellow shade, non-scoring teams.
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