Georgetown, Guyana – Uganda celebrated a landmark moment by claiming their first-ever T20 World Cup win, defeating Papua New Guinea by three wickets in a thrilling match at Providence Stadium on June 5.
The Ugandan bowlers were dominant, dismissing PNG for just 77 runs. In response, Uganda stumbled to 26-5 before a crucial sixth-wicket stand of 35 runs between Riazat Ali Shah (33) and Juma Miyagi (13) steadied the ship, leading them to victory in 18.2 overs.
A turning point came when Riazat was dropped by Charles Amini on eight, a missed opportunity that PNG would regret. Despite a tense finish, with Riazat eventually out for 33 just three runs shy of victory, Uganda held their nerve to clinch the win.
The jubilant Ugandan team celebrated on the field, marking their victory with spirited dancing. Captain Brian Masaba, who chose to bowl first, praised his team’s effort, saying, “This win is incredibly special for us, our first at the World Cup. The guys have worked so hard, and I’m extremely proud.”
The match started strongly for Uganda when Alpesh Ramjani trapped PNG captain Assad Vala lbw with the second ball. Further wickets fell quickly, including Sese Bau and Tony Ura, both caught by Roger Mukasa off Juma Miyagi and Cosmas Kyewuta, respectively.
Lega Siaka’s run-out for 12 and Charles Amini’s bowled dismissal by Frank Nsubuga left PNG in trouble. Only Hiri Hiri (15) and Kiplin Doriga (12) reached double figures, as PNG was all out with five balls remaining in their innings.
Uganda’s historic win not only earned them their first World Cup points but also showcased their emerging cricketing prowess.
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