Uganda achieved a historic T20 World Cup win.
Nsubuga and Miyagi led with exceptional bowling performances.
PNG’s batting collapsed under pressure and missed chances.
Riazat Ali Shah’s resilience anchored Uganda’s tricky chase.
A Milestone Victory
In a thrilling encounter at the T20 World Cup, Uganda achieved their maiden victory by defeating Papua New Guinea (PNG) in a low-scoring contest held in Guyana. Uganda’s win, marked by resilience and strategic brilliance, came with a three-wicket margin as both teams vied for their first triumph in the tournament. Despite early troubles in their chase, Uganda’s determination saw them through, reaching the target in the 19th over after bowling out PNG for 77 runs.
The Bowling Masterclass: Uganda’s Veterans Shine
The cornerstone of Uganda’s victory was their exceptional bowling performance, led by the experienced duo of Frank Nsubuga and the youthful Juma Miyagi.
Nsubuga’s Record-Breaking Spell
Nsubuga, at 43, showcased his class by delivering one of the most economical spells in T20 World Cup history. His figures of 4-2-4-2 included 20 dot balls, placing him alongside Ajantha Mendis in the record books. His precise line and length stifled PNG’s batting lineup, creating constant pressure that led to wickets.
Miyagi’s Impact
At the other end, Miyagi, only 21, complemented Nsubuga with his sharp pace and control, claiming 2 for 10. His ability to extract movement off the pitch troubled the PNG batsmen, who struggled to find any rhythm. Together, they formed a formidable pair, blending experience and youthful vigor to dismantle PNG’s batting order.
PNG’s Batting Collapse: A Tale of Missed Opportunities
PNG’s innings was characterized by a series of missteps and missed opportunities. After being put to bat, PNG’s top order crumbled under the disciplined Ugandan bowling attack.
Early Wickets and Pressure
Assad Vala was the first to fall, playing back to Alpesh Ramjani’s left-arm spin on the second ball of the match. Miyagi and Cosmas Kyewuta then kept the pressure on, with Sese Bau and Tony Ura both falling cheaply. The pressure of dot balls and sharp fielding led to a run-out of Lega Siaka, further denting PNG’s prospects.
Nsubuga’s Crucial Strikes
Nsubuga’s entrance tightened the noose around PNG. He bowled Charles Amini with a deceptive slider and then trapped Hiri Hiri lbw, despite initial doubts. The review confirmed the decision, leaving PNG reeling. Ramjani and the Ugandan captain, Brian Masaba, chipped in with crucial wickets, wrapping up PNG’s innings with five balls to spare.
Uganda’s Stuttering Chase: Calm Amidst Chaos
Chasing a modest target of 78, Uganda faced their own set of challenges as PNG’s bowlers struck early blows.
Early Setbacks
Uganda’s innings began on a shaky note, mirroring PNG’s start. Alei Nao dismissed Roger Mukasa for a duck in the first over, followed by quick wickets from Norman Vanua and Nao, reducing Uganda to a precarious 6 for 3. With the top order back in the pavilion, Uganda needed a stabilizing force.
Riazat Ali Shah’s Resilience
Riazat Ali Shah emerged as the anchor for Uganda’s chase. His patient 33 off 56 balls, coupled with a crucial 35-run partnership with Miyagi, provided the much-needed stability. Despite losing partners at the other end, Riazat’s calm demeanor and strategic play kept Uganda’s hopes alive.
PNG’s Missed Chances
PNG’s efforts were marred by critical fielding lapses. Amini’s drop of Riazat at point, when he was on 8, proved costly. Bau’s drop of Kenneth Waiswa added to PNG’s woes, allowing Uganda to inch closer to the target.
The Final Push
Although Riazat fell in the 18th over, the damage had been done. With only a handful of runs needed, Uganda managed to cross the finish line, sealing a historic win. John Kariko’s valiant effort to catch Riazat at deep third came too late to alter the outcome.
Key Moments During The Game
Uganda’s Victory Margin: Uganda won by three wickets, chasing down PNG’s total of 77 in the 19th over.
Nsubuga’s Record-Breaking Spell: Frank Nsubuga bowled a historic spell with figures of 4-2-4-2, including 20 dot balls.
Miyagi’s Crucial Bowling: Juma Miyagi’s impactful figures of 2 for 10 played a significant role in restricting PNG.
PNG’s Batting Collapse: PNG were bowled out for 77 runs, with their top scorer, Hiri Hiri, contributing only 15 runs.
Riazat’s Vital Contribution: Riazat Ali Shah scored a crucial 33 off 56 balls, guiding Uganda to victory despite early setbacks.
