Uganda’s neighbours shut the door on U19 World Cup hopes

Humbled by Tanzania on Saturday, Uganda were annihilated by Kenya on Sunday.

And just like that, the dream of qualifying for the ICC World Cup is over. In truth, it was never realistic.

Uganda were bowled out for just 69 runs in 19.5 overs. Courtesy Photo

Emmanuel Isaanez’s side never had a legitimate shot at qualification, even if Uganda’s history of winning the tournament on three previous occasions, the last one coming as recently as 2021, might have suggested they did.

Saturday’s tournament opener against Tanzania was disappointing, to say the least.

There was plenty to celebrate for the Kenyan bowlers. Courtesy Photo

Uganda won the toss and opted to field, a decision they failed to justify with a bowling performance the Tanzanians took full advantage of, racing to 189/8 in 50 overs.

Uganda’s response never took off, with Gerald Olipa’s wicket in the fifth over precipitating a collapse. Opener Devansh Patel led Uganda’s scoring with 25, albeit off 84 balls. In the end, Tanzania walked off with a 73-run win that instantly set the alarm bells ringing for Uganda.

Gerald Olipa won the toss and chose to bat first. Courtesy Photo

Would they bounce back against Kenya the following day? Nope!

It got worse. Kenya bowled out Uganda for 69 inside 20 overs. Peter Ocen, with 28 off 28, and Ali Balidawa were the only double-figure scorers for Uganda.