Batball Uganda Limited is proud to announce the upcoming inaugural Batball X cricket tournament, set to take place from 15th to 20th August 2023. The event promises to be the pinnacle of Ugandan cricket, showcasing the finest players from five regions – East, North, Nile, Central, and West – battling it out for the ultimate title. Additionally, a select team from Rwanda will join the competition, adding an international flair to the tournament.
The launch of Batball X took place at Copper Chimney Restaurant in Lugogo, Kampala. The organizers revealed that the tournament will carry a meaningful theme: “Hitting for Health – Tackling Hypertension with Every Boundary.” Alongside the thrilling cricket action, Batball X aims to create awareness about hypertension, a silent but prevalent health issue affecting one out of every three individuals, often unknowingly.
To achieve this goal, Batball Uganda Limited has partnered with the Integrated Management of Non-Communicable Diseases (UINCD), a research organization focused on addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). During Batball X, UINCD will be on-site, providing free hypertension screenings and consultations while educating spectators and players alike about healthy practices.
Martin Ondeko, COO of Batball Uganda Limited, expressed the tournament’s positive impact on young cricketers. He highlighted that over 70% of the players selected for Uganda’s junior team squad in the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers (Africa U-19 Qualifier) in Tanzania had previously competed in Batball Open tournaments. Batball X aims to build on this foundation, nurturing talent and shaping the future cricket stars of Uganda.
The tournament will feature games in a 10-overs-a-side format, with Group A playing at Jinja SS Oval and Group B taking center stage at the renowned Lugogo Cricket Oval. Expect riveting matchups, passionate performances, and an electric atmosphere as these regions compete for glory.
Batball Uganda Limited, in collaboration with the Uganda Cricket Association, has worked diligently to ensure the success of Batball X. Their partnership nurtures talent, guiding aspiring cricketers from the grassroots to the global stage.
The tournament will culminate in the Super 4 stage, where the top two teams from each group will compete at Lugogo Cricket Oval in adrenaline-pumping matches. The final promises to be a captivating showdown, with cricketing elite vying for the prestigious Batball X championship title.
Fans and cricket enthusiasts from Uganda, Africa, and beyond will have the opportunity to witness every breathtaking moment as Batball X will be streamed live on batball.tv and other platforms. This global viewership opens new horizons for Ugandan cricket, providing opportunities for talented players to participate in international exchange programs and high-profile tournaments worldwide.
As preparations continue in full swing, Paul Kaheru, the LOC Chairman, expressed confidence in the readiness of the grounds at both Lugogo and Jinja. The local organizing committees in both cities are working tirelessly to ensure a seamless and memorable tournament experience.
Batball X aims to leave an indelible mark on the cricketing landscape, not only for its exceptional sporting display but also for its commitment to promoting health and well-being.