Entebbe, Uganda | July 20, 2025 – The stage is set for the fiercest of East African cricket rivalries as Uganda’s Cricket Cranes take on Kenya’s Simbas in the much-anticipated Migingo Derby tomorrow at Entebbe Oval. Uganda come into this fixture brimming with confidence, having picked up two wins in two games under the stewardship of newly appointed captain Juma Miyaji, who is enjoying a fairytale start to his leadership tenure.
“The derby is going to be a big fight. It is going to be a Monday but I call out all the fans to come through and support us because it is going to be exciting. We want to continue giving our best. The guys will want to do well.”
The Cricket Cranes remain unbeaten in their last five T20I encounters, including emphatic victories against Kenya; Won by 106 runs (March 23, 2024), Won by 72 runs (March 17, 2024), Won by 91 runs (December 19, 2023), Won by 33 runs (November 29, 2023) & Won by 1 run (June 21, 2023)
Kenya have blown hot and cold in recent outings but remain determined to reclaim regional bragging rights.
“Our ambition as Kenya is always to win the title with a special focus on the derby,” said Kenya vice-captain Lucas Oluoch Ndandason. “Entebbe is a slow pitch and we know 140 is the par score. The derby is going to be a nice one for the fans. We want to put on a show. Uganda should know they’re going to face a challenge from us.”
Both teams boast depth and experience, with Kenya relying on veterans like Rakep Patel, Shem Ngoche and returning captain Dhiren Gondaria, who comes back from a sabbatical. Uganda, will look to Robinson Obuya, Cosmas Kyewuta, Dinesh Nakrani, and Alpesh Ramjani, who always seem to find their best form in derby clashes.
Cricket Cranes assistant coach Jackson Ogwang underscored the importance of keeping momentum.
“Today was a top-up session for the batters to get them going, again. The momentum shifts quickly in a T20 game and we hit balls in the air against UAE when we needed to hit them on the ground. The team has so far picked two wins and we will see how we shuffle around the squad. Let’s see what Monday brings against our neighbours.”
Uganda currently sit top of the log with 4 points while Kenya, who have won and lost one match apiece, know that only victory will keep their hopes of clinching the Pearl of Africa T20I Series title alive. The Migingo Derby is a battle for regional supremacy – one that resonates across generations and inspires rising talents in both nations.
Matchday 4 Fixtures – Monday, July 21
UAE vs. Nigeria – 9:30am
Uganda vs. Kenya – 1:30pm
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