Classic Shantilal, Aziz Damani crowned at UCA awards

The best of the best in the 2017 UCA big circle of events were warranted with accolades Sunday at the Lugogo Cricket Oval.

From the Jazz Safari National Men's League division one, two and three to the Jazz Safari Women's league division one, two and three.

Aziz Damani enjoyed yet another moment in the spotlight, receiving their men's division one trophy.

It is quite interesting to remember that the moneyed club offset Tornado Bee's four- year grip on the title to rather set up a new order as they won the league at the first time of asking.

Conversely, Ragvani Shantilal became an instant sensation after landing in the country specifically for the night cricket season, but his eventual stay at Kutchi Tigers was to unleash the giant in him.

His spell in the league saw him score an overwhelming total of 554 from 13 innings to become both the best batsman and player series! He is part of the famed "fantastic four" that include Aezaz Kothariya and Dineshkumar Nakrani Ronak Patel who had originally come for night cricket duty.

 Jinja SS team covered in confetti as they happily receive their league trophy

In the women's category, Stephanie Nampiina was a focal point in Jinja SS' successful bid for what turned out to be their maiden 50 overs league title. The enterprising youngster collected a total of 104 runs, 8 wickets, to emerge player of series.

Meanwhile, Siva Kotti Reddy's strong financial muscle again paid dividends when Masaka SS, a new addition to the Aziz Damani family clinched the women's division two title with relative ease.

Aziz Damani Masaka SS' success depended much on rising star Immaculate Nakisuyi who with no doubt became the player of series with a total of 469 runs.

Debutants in the top flight, Olila were greatly represented with a second finish but their individual brilliance says much more about what there is yet to be offered.

Damalie Busingye was a wise pick by coach Ivan Kakande and true she didn't disappoint scoring a total of  142 runs to be crowned best batsman in division one. Her colleague Mary Apio picked 12 wickets to take home the best wicket keeper accolade.

In the end, the awards served partly as a reminder of the association's dedication to the game in what was supposed to be a glitzy ceremony.

UCA Awards

Selected accolades

Jazz Safari National Men's League

Division one

Champions

Aziz Damani

Player of Series

Ragvani Shantilal

Best batsman

Ragvani Shantilal

Best Bowler

Irfan Sahibzada

Best Wicket Keeper

Arnold Otwani

Best Fielder

Deus Muhumuza

Division two

Champions

Premier

Division three

Champions

Kampala Pirates

Jazz Safari National Women's League Div one

Champions

Jinja SS

Jazz Safari National Women's League Div Two

Aziz Damani Masaka SS