Uganda celebrated a landmark moment in their cricketing history with a thrilling three-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea (PNG) at Providence Stadium on Wednesday. This match marked Uganda’s first-ever win in the T20 World Cup, a significant achievement for the tournament debutants.

Riazat Ali Shah leads the charge

The match was a low-scoring but tense affair, with Uganda bowling out PNG for a mere 77 runs. Despite a shaky start to their run-chase, which saw them slipping to 26 for 5, Uganda managed to reach the target in 18.2 overs, largely thanks to Riazat Ali Shah’s crucial knock of 33 runs.

Riazat’s disciplined innings proved pivotal, especially after a crucial sixth-wicket partnership of 35 runs with Juma Miyagi (13). This partnership turned the tide in favor of Uganda. Riazat was dropped on eight runs by Charles Amini, who misjudged a straightforward catch, a moment PNG will undoubtedly regret.

Frank Nsubuga’s stellar spell

Frank Nsubuga delivered a spectacular bowling performance, with figures of 4-4-2, which played a crucial role in restricting PNG to a low total. Nsubuga’s efforts were immediately recognized by fans who paid tribute to his outstanding spell.

PNG struggled to build momentum throughout their innings. After winning the toss and electing to field, Uganda saw immediate success as Alpesh Ramjani trapped PNG captain Assad Vala lbw with the second ball of the innings, completing a wicket-maiden opening over.

Fans bow in Tribute to Frank Nsubuga after the spell of his life 4-4-2 @aqramist @deniszenk @davour23 @ICC #OutOfThisWorld #FlyInFullColour pic.twitter.com/7qYUYmT5Ng

— Adonia Waibale (@AdoniaWaibale) June 6, 2024

The wickets continued to fall as Sese Bau’s attempted drive off Juma Miyagi resulted in an excellent catch by Roger Mukasa running back from mid-off. Tony Ura followed in similar fashion, with his drive off Cosmas Kyewuta leading to a straightforward catch for Mukasa at mid-on, leaving PNG in trouble at 19 for 3 in the fourth over.

Lega Siaka, who appeared confident with 12 runs off 17 balls, was run out after a poorly judged attempt at a second run. When Charles Amini was bowled by Nsubuga, PNG’s focus shifted to damage control. Despite efforts from Hiri Hiri (15) and Kiplin Doriga (12), no other batsmen reached double figures, and PNG was bowled out with five balls remaining in their allotted 20 overs.

Welcome to a moment in history. Uganda's first win at the #T20WorldCup. 🇺🇬🏏🔥🥳#KawowoUpdates pic.twitter.com/OgipOqddmM

— Kawowo Sports (@kawowosports) June 6, 2024

Uganda’s chase began on a shaky note as they slipped to 26 for 5. However, Riazat Ali Shah’s resilience and his partnership with Juma Miyagi brought stability to the innings. Riazat’s disciplined approach after being dropped by Amini kept Uganda in the hunt. With just three runs needed for victory, he was caught by John Kariko at third man, but his efforts had already set the stage for Uganda’s triumph.

Victory dance marks historic win

The Ugandan team celebrated their historic win with dancing at the edge of the field, expressing their joy and marking their first points on the board. This victory came after surpassing the more established cricketing nation Zimbabwe to reach the tournament.

Huge congrats to the Cricket Cranes! 🇺🇬

Your historic win at the Men's Cricket World Cup is a moment of national pride.

You've inspired a generation of future cricket stars cc. @CricketUganda #CricketCranes | #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/1qx2VnHJui

— Uganda Media Centre (@UgandaMediaCent) June 6, 2024

“That’s a pretty special win for us. You know, first win at the World Cup,” said Uganda skipper Brian Masaba. “It doesn’t get more special than this. I’m super proud of this group of guys. I mean, they’ve put in the work, they’ve put in such a shift. And to get a win for their country at the World Cup is very, very special.”

Uganda captain – Pretty special win for us, first win at the World Cup. Doesn't get more special than this. Super proud of this group of guys, put in the work, to get a win for their country at the World Cup is very special. It's been quite a journey, 3-4 years of very hard work… pic.twitter.com/VeBafCRVbb

— Nibraz Ramzan (@nibraz88cricket) June 6, 2024

Uganda’s thrilling win over PNG at Providence Stadium not only secured their first T20 World Cup points but also highlighted the emerging talent in their cricketing ranks. The combined efforts of Riazat Ali Shah, Frank Nsubuga, and the entire team made this a memorable day for Ugandan cricket.