The Cricket Cranes are gearing up for an exciting showdown as they embark on their journey to Namibia to face off against the formidable Namibian team in the Castle Lite Series. This will mark the Cricket Cranes’ third visit to Namibia, where they will be challenged by the highly-ranked associate nation in T20 cricket, currently standing at 13th in the world.
Fresh off their triumphant victory in the inaugural Continent Cup T20 in Nairobi, the Cricket Cranes are oozing with confidence. Brian Masaba, the captain of the Cricket Cranes, will continue to lead the side, although they will be missing the talented Roger Mukasa due to a hamstring injury. In his place, Ronald Lutaaya steps in, hoping to make a significant impact. Juma Miyagi also returns to the team, replacing Siraje Nsubuga, who had an impressive debut in Nairobi. Joining the squad for the first time in Namibia are Ronald Lutaaya, Alpesh Ramjani, and Robinson Obuya.
In their previous visit to Namibia last year, the Cricket Cranes faced a tough challenge, losing the T20 series 2-1 and drawing the ODI series 1-1. However, Coach Laurence Mahatlane believes that this upcoming series presents another opportunity for the team to showcase their progress and growth.
“It’s an exciting opportunity to test ourselves against an ODI team and a team ranked 13th in T20Is. We have learned from our previous encounters, and this is a chance to prove how much smarter we have become against experienced opposition. Additionally, gaining experience with the Windhoek conditions, both on and off the field, will be crucial for us as we prepare for the qualifiers scheduled in Namibia from the 20th of November,” Coach Mahatlane shared.
The tour, spanning from June 4th to June 13th, will feature four T20i matches and two ODI matches. Fans can catch all the action via live stream.
This tour forms a vital part of the Cricket Cranes’ preparation for the upcoming 2023 T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Namibia. The team heads into the series with the confidence and momentum gained from their memorable triumph in the recent Continent T20 Cup held in Nairobi. They are determined to build on this success as they face a busy schedule ahead.
The final 14 players representing the Cricket Cranes are as follows: Brian Masaba (c), Kenneth Waiswa, Juma Miyagi, Ronald Lutaaya, Simon Ssesazi, Obuya Robinson, Dinesh Nakrani, Alpesh Ramjani, Riazat Ali Shah, Henry Ssenyondo, Cyrus Kakuru, and Frank Nsubuga.
