Takashinga – October 4. Uganda wrapped up their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier campaign in ruthless fashion, outclassing Nigeria’s Yellow Greens by 66 runs at Takashinga Cricket Club earlier this evening in Harare.
Captain Riazat Ali Shah led from the front, smashing a scintillating 66 off 30 balls with six boundaries and four sixes to guide Uganda to a formidable 196/7 in 20 overs. He was deservedly named Player of the Match.
Support came from team rookies Gaurav Tomar (33 off 25) and Sumeet Verma (33 off 18) who added crucial middle-order runs.
In reply, Nigeria struggled against Uganda’s disciplined bowling attack. Henry Ssenyondo starred with 3/12 in 4 overs, while Alpesh Ramjani (2/17) and Juma Miyaji (1/24) kept the chase in check. Nigeria’s captain Sylvester Okpe top-scored with 29 but his side limped to 130/7 in 20 overs.
Uganda’s fifth-place finish was bittersweet, having narrowly missed out on the semi-finals after early defeats to Zimbabwe and Tanzania.
“Our start was poor, and it cost us,” admitted Coach Abhay Sharma. “The Tanzania collapse where we lost seven wickets for 15 runs was the lowest moment. That match decided our fate.”
Captain Riazat added: “This was a wake-up call. We showed our true ability against Nigeria but must learn to execute better and play our roles consistently.”
The tournament concluded with Zimbabwe crowned champions after beating Namibia by 7 wickets, Kenya clinching third after overpowering Tanzania by 51 runs, and Malawi finishing seventh.
ICC MEN’S T20 WORLD CUP AFRICA QUALIFIER – FIFTH PLACE PLAYOFF FINAL
Uganda 196/7 (20 overs): [Riazat Ali Shah 66*, Tomar 33, Verma 33; Sylvester Okpe 2/31]
Nigeria 130/7 (20 overs): [Sylvester Okpe 29*; Ssenyondo 3/12, Ramjani 2/17]
Uganda won by 66 runs. Player of the Match: Riazat Ali Shah (Uganda)
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