Uganda put on an impressive show against Botswana, securing a commanding 108-run victory in their latest match at the ILT20 Continental Cup. With a dazzling performance from Simon Ssesazi, Uganda set the highest team score of the tournament, 229/3 in 20 overs.
After Botswana won the toss and opted to bowl, they were immediately under pressure. Uganda’s opening pair, Simon Ssesazi and Fred Achelam, played aggressively, putting up 57 runs in just six overs. Achelam contributed a quick-fire 25 off 18 balls, including two big sixes, before being dismissed in the seventh over.
Ssesazi, however, took charge, playing a brilliant knock of 85 runs from 53 balls. He was well-supported by Shrideep Mangela, who scored a blistering 65 runs from just 34 balls. Captain Riazat Ali Shah also added a powerful 35* off 15 balls to propel Uganda to a huge total of 229/3 in their 20 overs.
In reply, Botswana started solidly, scoring 38 runs in the first three overs. However, Uganda’s bowlers quickly took control. Captain Riazat Ali Shah made a key change by bringing Frank Nsubuga into the attack, which slowed Botswana’s momentum. Nsubuga’s tight spell restricted Botswana to just four runs in his first over.
Botswana’s chase was further hindered by the bowling of Joseph Baguma (2/20), Alpesh Ramjan (2/29), and Henry Ssenyondo (1/15), who kept the pressure on throughout. Despite a few resistance efforts, Botswana finished at 121/7, falling well short of the target.
The win marks Uganda’s sixth straight win in the tournament, keeping them at the top of the table with an unbeaten record and 12 points from six games. Teams will have a break on Tuesday and will resume action on Wednesday.
