Cricket Cranes head coach Abhay Sharma has expressed delight at the prospect of unleashing two fresh debutants – Calvin Watuwa and Mathew Musinguzi – during the upcoming Pearl of Africa (POA) T20 Series at the lakeside Entebbe Oval from July 17-28.
The duo, named in Uganda’s 14-man squad for the international series that features Namibia, Kenya, Nigeria and UAE, have impressed coaches and selectors with their work ethic and growth.
“We are focusing on giving more opportunities to young players and everyone,” said Sharma. “The idea is to get positive feedback for certain positions as we build up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier in Zimbabwe this September. We want to have backup plans in every position. If these young players do well, they will get an opportunity to play in the big tournaments.”
Musinguzi, a slow left-arm orthodox bowler and graduate of Uganda’s Under-19 (Baby Cricket Cranes) setup, is seen as a long-term replacement for Henry Ssenyondo whenever the latter calls it a day.
“This is going to be a real experience,” Musinguzi said. “Growing from the U-19s to the national team is something I take pride in. I am looking forward to doing my best for the team in order to win the series. I know my fans, teammates and friends expect a lot from me. I have worked hard on my game and composure and it is what has won over the selectors and coaches. I have the right synergy within me. I want to be here for a long time in national colours.”
Watuwa, known for his clean hitting and solid technique honed further during semi-professional stints at Bulawayo Athletic Club (BAC) in Zimbabwe, is relishing the moment.
“I am very excited about my upcoming debut. I want a dream debut and to make a statement by scoring some quick and big runs – a 50, 70 or even 100 if the Lord is on my side. I want to show everyone that I am not here by mistake. This is great for me to make a debut at home. I have always visualized it. My message to everyone is that they should not give up. I have been knocking on the doors for a long time and here I am.”
Door Remains Wide Open
Sharma added that all players not selected remain in the mix.
“Whoever is not part of this tournament, it doesn’t mean they will not be considered. The door remains wide open. The players must also know that one must make way for the other regarding form. Our choice with Juma Miyaji as captain was easy. He has a good head on his shoulders and really thinks the game. He is assured of a number and we want him to take more responsibility. We want him, like the youngsters, to play without the fear of failure.”
Assistant coach Jackson Ogwang also voiced confidence in the new inclusions.
“We have played at least a couple of games and seen many players coming through since the Batball Maxx 2025. Opener Raghav Dhawan has also been doing well. We are happy with the firepower we have. These boys – Calvin Watuwa and Mathew Musinguzi – need to show now. It’s nice for them to get this experience. Zimbabwe is calling and we want to be ready for the World Cup qualifier. We are thinking ahead.”
Uganda will be led by 22-year-old Juma Miyaji, who assumes the full captaincy for the first time after serving as vice-captain in the PNG Series last year.
“I am ready to lead the side. Cricket Cranes is full of mature players and I will have support from the senior players on the field. My job is going to be tough but the players are going to make it easy because everyone knows what to do,” Miyaji said.
Uganda Cricket Cranes Squad For POA T20 Series
Robinson Obuya, Raghav Dhawan, Franco Nsubuga, Mathew Musinguzi, Dinesh Nakrani, Alpesh Ramjani, Juma Miyaji (captain), Shrideep Mangela, Cosmas Kyewuta, Cyrus Kakuru, Ronald Lutaaya, Innocent Mwebaze, Joseph Baguma, Calvin Watuwa
Reserves: Pascal Murungi, Fred Achelam
Uganda A to play Namibia A on Thursday, July 17
Simon Ssesazi, Pascal Murungi (captain), Stephen Wabwose, Kenneth Waiswa, Sumeet Verma, Gaurav Tomar, Anas Baig, Fred Achelam, Bilal Hassun, Ivan Baidu, Matthew Musinguzi, Siraje Nsubuga, Brighton Muganzi, Pius Oloka
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