Uganda achieved their first win at the T20 World Cup with a thrilling three-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea (PNG) in Guyana. In a game where both teams were desperate for a win, Uganda bowled PNG out for just 77 runs. Despite facing their own challenges in the chase, Uganda managed to secure the win in the 19th over.
Uganda’s star bowler, Frank Nsubuga, who is 43 years old, delivered an incredible performance. He bowled a record-setting spell of 4 overs, conceding only 4 runs and taking 2 wickets. Alongside him, young Juma Miyagi, just 21 years old, also impressed with figures of 2-10. Together, they dismantled PNG’s batting lineup, leaving them struggling at 77 all out.
The match began with Uganda’s Alpesh Ramjani taking a wicket on the second ball, setting the tone for PNG’s struggles. Miyagi and Cosmas Kyewuta continued to pressure PNG with their pace, leading to key wickets. Roger Mukasa took a remarkable catch to dismiss Sese Bau, while Tony Ura, PNG’s top T20I scorer, fell to Kyewuta. PNG’s innings never recovered as they lost wickets regularly, with Nsubuga and Ramjani striking crucial blows.
Chasing a modest target, Uganda’s start was shaky. PNG’s Alei Nao dismissed Mukasa in the first over, followed by quick wickets from Norman Vanua and Nao, reducing Uganda to 6 for 3. However, Riazat Ali Shah’s steady 33 off 56 balls anchored the innings. Despite a dropped catch when Riazat was on 8, he capitalized on the opportunity to guide Uganda towards victory.
Riazat’s calmness under pressure proved vital. He added a crucial 35 runs with Miyagi before the latter was run out. PNG’s fielding lapses continued to aid Uganda, as Bau dropped Kenneth Waiswa. Although Riazat was eventually dismissed in the 18th over, Uganda had already edged closer to victory. They reached the target with three wickets to spare, marking a historic win for Uganda at the T20 World Cup.
They will be up against Co-host West Indies in their third game of the tournament on 9th June.
