Castle Lite Series: Mahatlane rues Miyaji's injury, praises Lutaaya as Uganda falls in game one

The Cricket Cranes got off on the wrong foot in game one of the six at the Castle Lite Series against Namibia on Wednesday.

Uganda lost to Namibia by 26 runs; after winning the toss and electing to field fast, they restricted Namibia to 191/6 but couldn’t catch up when it was their time to bat. They put 162/4 on the board.

Head coach Laurence Mahatlane credited his charges for their efforts: “I am proud of the boys in how they fought back.”

"It was a very tough outing today. Unfortunately, we lost Juma Miyaji after just four deliveries which probably set us back; having said that.”

"From a batting front, losing by 26 runs, our intensity wasn't as high as we wanted to see it.”

“But credit must go to Namibia for the experience showed in their bowling. I am sure our bowling group will bounce back,” Mahatlane added.

What Happened?

Alpesh Ramjani (3/32), on his first tour of Namibia, tried to slow down the run scoring as he picked up key wickets.

Simon Ssesazi's low return (12) got the run chase underway. However, Ronald Lutaaya put on a 54(46) show, picking up his second T20i half-century, but the side fell short, posting 165/4.

All-rounder Riazat Ali Shar is also back home after he misplaced his passport in transit as the team travelled to Namibia.

Uganda will return to action on Thursday but will miss the services of brothers Simon Ssesazi and Henry Ssenyondo, who have since returned to Uganda following the tragic death of their mother.