Uganda vs Papua New Guinea: In a gripping T20 World Cup match on June 5, 2024, at Providence, Uganda clinched a remarkable victory over Papua New Guinea (PNG). The game saw early breakthroughs and tight bowling, making for a thrilling contest.
PNG struggled early on when their top run-scorer, Tony Ura, was caught by Mukasa. Lega Siaka was run out for 12 in the seventh over while attempting a risky second run under pressure from Uganda’s fast bowlers. Frank Nsubuga then made history by becoming the second-oldest bowler to take a wicket in the T20 World Cup, clean bowling Charles Amini in the 11th over. Nsubuga struck again, trapping Hiri Hiri lbw, a decision upheld upon review despite initial doubts.
Ramjani took his second wicket by trapping Kiplin Doriga lbw for 12, and captain Brian Masaba bowled Chad Soper with a topspinner. The final wickets fell to Miyagi and Kyewuta, and PNG was bowled out with five balls remaining.
Nsubuga, aged 43, bowled consecutive wicket maidens, showcasing his experience and skill. His performance was a highlight of the match, significantly contributing to PNG’s low total.
Uganda’s Chase
PNG’s Alei Nao mirrored his team’s start by removing Mukasa for a duck in the first over. Norman Vanua then dismissed Robinson Obuya, with Vala making an easy catch at mid-on. Nao struck again in the third over, trapping Simon Ssesazi lbw, leaving Uganda at a precarious 6 for 3. Ramjani and Riazat attempted to steady the innings, but Ramjani was bowled by Soper in the sixth over. PNG captain Vala caught and bowled Dinesh Nakrani, putting PNG in a strong position.
Riazat’s Composure Seals the Win
At 35 for 5, Uganda seemed in trouble until Riazat was dropped by Amini at point. This missed chance proved pivotal. Riazat hit his only boundary in the 11th over off Vala and added 35 crucial runs for the sixth wicket with Miyagi, who was later run out in the 14th over after a mix-up.
Despite the setbacks, Riazat remained calm, and Uganda capitalized on PNG’s fielding errors. Bau dropped Kenneth Waiswa on 4, and although Riazat eventually fell in the 18th over, his efforts had brought Uganda close to victory. John Kariko’s catch at deep third came too late for PNG, as Uganda secured the win.
Uganda’s resilience and Riazat’s calm under pressure were key to their victory over PNG. This match will be remembered for Nsubuga’s historic performance and the turning point provided by Amini’s dropped catch, underscoring the excitement and unpredictability of T20 cricket.
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