Press Release:
The Uganda Cricket Association (UCA) is thrilled to announce that the Uganda A team will represent the nation at the Emerging Nations T20 SerieS in Kigali, Rwanda, from November 19-29, 2024. The tournament features teams, including Rwanda XI, Rwanda A, and Zimbabwe Emerging, providing a competitive platform for rising stars on the continent.
Led by seasoned campaigners Roger Mukasa (captain) and Simon Ssesazi, the squad is a blend of experienced players looking to regain form and emerging U-19 talents aiming to make a mark. This mix ensures both player development and a strong challenge against formidable opponents.
UCA Selector and Team Manager for the tour, Richard Okia, emphasized the importance of this tournament;
“This series aligns perfectly with our mission to build a high-performance culture and deepen the pathways from grassroots cricket to the senior national team. It offers players invaluable exposure to international-level competition, allowing us to identify future stars and build squad depth for Uganda Cricket's long-term success.”
Uganda A Coach, for this tour, Davis Turinawe also highlighted the dual benefit of nurturing young talents that have come through the development pathways and providing a platform for experienced players to refine their skills;
“We believe in creating opportunities for our players to thrive. Competing against teams like Zimbabwe Emerging and Rwanda's best will push our players to new heights and simulate the demands of senior international cricket.”
Team Uganda A:
1. Simon Ssesazi 2. Roger Mukasa (C) 3. Anas Baig 4. Ronald Lutaaya 5. Cyrus Kakuru 6. Pascal Murungi 7. Calvin Watuwa 8. Joseph Baguma 9. Siraj Nsubuga 10. Steven Wabwose 11. Christopher Kidega 12. Ivan Baidu 13. Musa Majid 14. Jonathan Ssebanja
Officials:
Davis Turinawe – Head Coach Richard Okia – Team Manager Habiba Kulusum Anguyo – Physiotherapist Eric Wandera – Umpire
TOURNAMENT FIXTURES:
21/11/2024, 9:30 AM: Rwanda XI vs. Uganda A
21/11/2024, 1:30 PM: Zimbabwe Emerging vs. Rwanda A
22/11/2024, 9:30 AM: Uganda A vs. Zimbabwe Emerging
22/11/2024, 1:30 PM: Rwanda A vs. Rwanda XI
23/11/2024, 9:30 AM: Rwanda XI vs. Zimbabwe Emerging
23/11/2024, 1:30 PM: Rwanda A vs. Uganda A
25/11/2024, 9:30 AM: Zimbabwe Emerging vs. Rwanda A
25/11/2024, 1:30 PM: Uganda A vs. Rwanda XI
26/11/2024, 9:30 AM: Rwanda XI vs. Rwanda A
26/11/2024, 1:30 PM: Uganda A vs. Zimbabwe Emerging
28/11/2024, 9:30 AM: Rwanda A vs. Uganda A
28/11/2024, 1:30 PM: Zimbabwe Emerging vs. Rwanda XI
29/11/2024, 9:30 AM: 3rd Place Playoff
29/11/2024, 1:30 PM: Final
NB: All games will be played at the Gahanga B Oval
This packed schedule will challenge Uganda A to adapt to varied match conditions and showcase their skills against tough opposition. This initiative underscores UCA's commitment to strengthening regional cricket relations and investing in the growth of the sport. The UCA extends its gratitude to the Rwanda Cricket Association for hosting the series and providing a platform for cricketing talent to shine.