In a low-scoring but tight match on Wednesday at Providence Stadium, Uganda won their first-ever T20 World Cup, defeating Papua New Guinea by three wickets.
On Wednesday, in a low-scoring but tight match at Providence Stadium, Uganda won their first-ever T20 World Cup match, defeating Papua New Guinea by three wickets. Following a difficult 26-5 reply, the African team bowled out PNG for 77 and, with Riazat Ali Shah topping the score with 33, reached the mark in 18.2 overs. For the tournament debutants, Riazat and Juma Miyagi (13) shared a vital sixth wicket partnership of 35 runs, which pretty well clinched the match.
However, PNG will always regret the moment Charles Amini dropped Riazat, who was on eight, since he misjudged a reasonably easy catch.
The Pacific Islanders had their work cut out for them in trying to hold onto such a low total, but they also gave up 15 wides due to some careless bowling.
Following the break, Riazat turned in a calm and concentrated innings until he skied a catch to John Kariko at third man with three runs left to win.
The Ugandans celebrated their victory with dancing on the edge of the field as the team, which beat out more established cricketing nation Zimbabwe to reach the tournament, picked up their first points.
“We’re pretty proud of that victory. “You know, first World Cup victory,” Brian Masaba, the captain of Uganda, remarked.
Nothing compares to this level of specialness. I’m really happy for these guys. They’ve worked really hard, they’ve made such a shift. And it’s extremely, extremely special for them to win at the World Cup for their nation,” he continued.
Alpesh Ramjani removed Assad Vala, the captain of Papua New Guinea, with the second ball of the innings, trapping him leg before wicket in an opening over that was a wicket-maiden. Masaba had won the toss and elected to bat first.
Sese Bau attempted to drive Juma Miyagi, but Roger Mukasa caught him off guard and recovered to make the catch from mid-off.
Tony Ura followed suit, with his team suffering at 19-3 in the fourth over after his attempted drive off Cosmas Kyewuta was easily caught by Mukasa at mid-on.
After hitting 12 from 17 balls, Lega Siaka was assured. However, a foolish attempt to make a second run resulted in a run-out, and after Frank Nsubuga bowled Charles Amini, it was time to restrict damage.
With five balls remaining in their allocated 20 overs, the Pacific Islanders were bowled out, with only Hiri Hiri (15) and Kiplin Doriga (12) reaching double digits.
