Jinja Senior Secondary School once again proved they are the team to beat, successfully defending their Schools Cricket Week title with a resounding 50-run victory over their long-time rivals, Busoga College Mwiri.
The day started on a high note for Jinja SSS when they won the toss and decided to bat first. Openers Richard Sohera and Magezi Ronald took to the crease with calm confidence, nudging singles and rotating the strike to keep the scoreboard ticking. Although the boundaries were hard to come by in the early stages, their steady approach frustrated Mwiri’s bowlers, who struggled to apply any real pressure.
As the innings progressed, Jinja SSS hit their stride, finding gaps and picking up the pace. Despite losing a few key wickets in the middle overs, they managed a late surge that saw them post a respectable total of 130/8 in their 20 overs. The crowd, buzzing with anticipation, knew that the battle was far from over.
Busoga College Mwiri’s hopes rested squarely on the shoulders of Gerald Olipa, who had been their standout performer throughout the tournament. True to form, Olipa stepped up to the challenge, playing some delightful strokes and scoring 40 runs—half of Mwiri’s eventual total. However, his efforts weren’t enough to carry the team over the line.
With little support from the other end, Mwiri’s run chase faltered. Eric Mukisa managed to reach double figures but his 11 off 35 balls only added pressure on Olipa to perform miracles. When Olipa finally fell, so did Mwiri’s chances of a comeback, handing Jinja SSS a well-deserved victory and their fifth Schools Cricket Week title.
While Jinja SSS celebrated their win, the Plate Final between Shree Sahajand School and King’s College Budo was unfolding into a nail-biter. Shree Sahajand, chasing a total of 98, seemed to have things under control until a late collapse nearly cost them the match. But in the end, they held their nerve, scraping through by just one wicket—a fitting end to a week of intense competition.
The tournament also recognized individual brilliance with several awards. Gerald Olipa of Busoga College Mwiri was named MVP for his stellar performances, while Ronald Rubangakene from St Joseph’s College Layibi took home the Best Batter award. Stephen Aliganyira from Nyakasura School was awarded Best Bowler, and Busoga College Mwiri’s Doka AbdulShakur earned Best Fielder honors.
