Harare – October 3. Both Uganda and Nigeria started with their campaigns high hopes, but instead of contesting for a World Cup slot, they now find themselves fighting for pride in the fifth-place playoff final.
The Cricket Cranes’ disappointment of missing out on back-to-back World Cup appearances has been softened by two clinical wins over Botswana and Malawi in the placement rounds. Nigeria’s Yellow Greens suffered heartbreak when a cruel Net Run Rate twist denied them a semifinal berth despite putting up a spirited show against Kenya. They recovered by brushing aside Botswana, but now seek their first ever T20I win over Uganda in 11 attempts.
Captain Riazat Ali Shah admitted the group was hurting but determined:
“It’s been a tough campaign, but we are determined to finish strong. Ending on a high is important for the team and for our supporters back home.”
Head coach Abhay Sharma was equally candid:
“Honestly, we are not happy to be playing for fifth place. But now that we are here, the focus is on better execution. These are the games that test character. The process is bigger than one result.”
Assistant coach Jackson Ogwang underlined the pride factor:
“A win will help restore some of our dented pride and give us momentum heading back home.”
Nigeria’s campaign was undone by fine margins. Their batting firepower, led by Sulaimon Runsewe and Isaac Danladi, has shown promise, while Peter Aho and Joshua Asia have led the bowling. With Kenyan legend Steve Tikolo at the helm, the Yellow Greens are confident they can spring a surprise at Takashinga.
While fifth place is far from the ultimate prize, both teams view it as a platform to rebuild confidence. Uganda’s unbeaten record over Nigeria (11-0 in T20Is) makes them favourites, but Nigeria’s hunger for a breakthrough could turn today’s clash into a thriller.
ICC MEN’S T20 WORLD CUP AFRICA QUALIFIER
Tomorrow – Playoff Fixtures
7th Place Playoff: Botswana vs Malawi, 10.30am – Takashinga CC
5th Place Playoff Final: Uganda vs Nigeria, 2.50pm – Takashinga CC
3rd Place Playoff: Tanzania vs Kenya, 10.30am – Harare Sports Club
Final: Zimbabwe vs Namibia, 2.50pm – Harare Sports Club
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