Uganda fight for survival against Namibia at ICC qualifiers

ICC Africa World Cup Qualifiers

Result

Sierra Leone 119/10 Uganda 122/5

(Uganda win by five wickets)

Today

Uganda v Namibia

Uganda will be looking for a second victory at the ICC World Cup Qualifiers when they take on Namibia today in Lagos at the UNILAG Cricket Pitch.

A five-wicket win over Sierra Leone Tuesday ended Uganda’s two-game losing start to the six-team tournament, and another win would guarantee survival from relegation. But it remains to be seen whether it will come in today’s encounter, as Namibia are much stronger opposition than Sierra Leone.

Still, Namibia were defeated Tuesday by Tanzania, who, along with Kenya, remains the only unbeaten team in the tournament. The two face off today in a contest that could determine who goes on to win it all, particularly if Tanzania prevail.

Uganda are out of contention for the tournament, but a strong finish will restore lost pride for Gerald Olipa and Co.

“We are really happy,” said Uganda head coach Emmanuel Isaanez following the win over Sierra Leone. “We have brought back the winning spirit in the camp. We needed the win to bring the positive vibes in the camp.”

Uganda’s Ali Balidawa was named man-of-the-match after picking up 3/11 in 10 overs. Patel Devansh finished a team-best 25 runs, while skipper Olipa added 20.

Abdulaziz Tandia and Jonathan Nyiro added 18 and 11 runs respectively.