Uganda started their T20 series in style with a commanding 77-run win over Nigeria in a rain-hit match on Friday morning at Lakeside Oval.
Batting first, the Cricket Cranes put up a strong total of 180 for 4 in 20 overs. Robinson Obuya led the charge with a solid unbeaten 58 off 39 balls. He was well supported by Raghav Dhawan and Shrideep Mangela, both scoring 33 runs, while Cyrus Kakuru added a quick 26 to boost the total.
Nigeria’s bowlers struggled to stop the flow of runs, with Sylvester Okpe being the most economical, taking 1 for 27 from his four overs.
Rain later affected the match, and Nigeria’s target was adjusted to 163 in 18 overs using the DLS method. Their chase never picked up momentum. Isaac Danladi scored 26 and Selim Salau added 24, but the rest of the batters found it hard to get going.
Uganda’s bowlers were tight and effective. Mathew Musinguzi, on debut, took two important wickets. He was supported by Juma Miyaji, Alpesh Ramjani, Frank Nsubuga, Dinesh Nakrani, and Cosmas Kyewuta, who all bowled economical spells to restrict Nigeria to just 85 for 5.
This victory gave Uganda a strong start in the Pearl of Africa T20 Series. It was also a special moment for Musinguzi, who made a successful debut, and for Juma Miyaji, who captained the side for the first time.
