On a momentous occasion for Uganda for their very first appearance in the T20 World Cup, Brian Masaba led the Uganda squad in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The 15-player squad, brimming with talent and experience, reflects the culmination of years of dedication and perseverance by the Cricket Cranes.
Uganda Squad and Players List: T20 World Cup 2024
Brian Masaba (c), Riazat Ali Shah (vc), Simon Ssesazi, Roger Mukasa, Cosmas Kyewuta, Dinesh Nakrani, Fred Achelam, Kenneth Waiswa, Alpesh Ramjani, Frank Nsubuga, Henry Ssenyondo, Bilal Hassun, Robinson Obuya, Juma Miyaji, Ronak Patel.
- Travelling Reserves: Innocent Mwebaze, Ronald Lutaaya
Uganda’s journey to the T20 World Cup has been nothing short of remarkable, with the team stunning Zimbabwe and conquering the African field in qualifying rounds. Now, they look ahead to the challenges of Group C, where they will face formidable opponents such as co-hosts West Indies, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Afghanistan.
Masaba’s leadership will be bolstered by vice-captain Riazat Ali Shah, forming a formidable duo at the helm of the team. Masaba, along with several other Ugandan stalwarts, brings over a decade’s worth of experience in international cricket, epitomized by the venerable 43-year-old Frank Nsubuga.
Nsubuga’s inclusion in the squad is a testament to his enduring commitment to the sport, spanning back to his debut in the 1997 ICC Trophy.
A cult figure in emerging cricket circles, Nsubuga’s selection adds a touch of nostalgia and inspiration to Uganda’s maiden World Cup campaign.
His remarkable catch against Kenya in a Cricket World Cup Challenge League match in 2022 showcased his enduring passion and skill on the field.
Uganda’s squad boasts a blend of seasoned campaigners and promising talents, with spin-bowling all-rounder Alpesh Ramjani emerging as a standout performer.
Ramjani’s stellar form earned him a nomination for the 2023 ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year, thanks to his prolific wicket-taking ability and economical bowling.
Joining Ramjani in the spin department is left-arm orthodox spinner Henry Ssenyondo, whose impressive tally of 49 wickets in 2023 underscores his importance to the team’s bowling attack.
With their ability to bamboozle batsmen with spin variations, Ramjani and Ssenyondo will play crucial roles in Uganda’s quest for success.
Also Read: USA T20 World Cup Squad 2024
In the batting department, Riazat Ali Shah and Dinesh Nakrani stand out as notable aggressors, capable of dismantling opposition bowling attacks with their explosive stroke play.
The squad also benefits from the U19 World Cup experience of youngster Juma Miyaji, who gained valuable exposure in the 2022 event held in the West Indies.
While Uganda may be making its debut in a senior men’s World Cup, the nation has a rich cricketing history, symbolized by Samuel Walusimbi’s participation in the now-defunct East Africa team at the 1975 Cricket World Cup.
Walusimbi’s legacy serves as a source of inspiration for the current generation of Ugandan cricketers as they embark on their own historic journey.
Uganda’s campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 commences on June 3 against Afghanistan in Guyana.
With a blend of experience, talent, and determination, the Cricket Cranes are primed to make their mark on the global stage, representing their nation with pride and passion.
