Uganda secured their first-ever T20 World Cup win with a thrilling three-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea (PNG) at Providence Stadium on Wednesday. The match was a low-scoring but tense affair.
Uganda bowled out PNG for a mere 77 runs; and despite a shaky start to their run-chase, which saw them slipping to 26 for 5, they reached the target in 18.2 overs, thanks to Riazat Ali Shah's knock of 33 runs.
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A crucial sixth-wicket partnership of 35 between Riazat and Juma Miyagi (13) turned the tide in favour of the tournament debutants. However, PNG will regret the moment when Riazat, on eight runs, was dropped by Charles Amini, who misjudged a straightforward catch.
Defending such a low total was always going to be challenging for PNG, and they were further hindered by loose bowling, conceding 15 wides.
After his catch was dropped, Riazat played a disciplined and focused innings. With just three runs needed for victory, he was caught by John Kariko at third man.
The Ugandan team celebrated their historic win with dancing at the edge of the field. This victory, after surpassing the more established cricketing nation Zimbabwe to reach the tournament, marked their first points on the board.
"That's a pretty special win for us. You know, first win at the World Cup," said Uganda skipper Brian Masaba. "It doesn't get more special than this. I'm super proud of this group of guys. I mean, they've put in the work, they've put in such a shift. And to get a win for their country at the World Cup is very, very special."
Masaba won the toss and elected to field, a decision that paid off immediately as Alpesh Ramjani trapped PNG captain Assad Vala lbw with the second ball of the innings, completing a wicket-maiden opening over.
Sese Bau attempted to drive Juma Miyagi but was caught by Roger Mukasa, who made an excellent catch running back from mid-off.
Tony Ura followed in similar fashion, his attempted drive off Cosmas Kyewuta resulting in a straightforward catch for Mukasa at mid-on, leaving PNG in trouble at 19 for 3 in the fourth over.
Lega Siaka appeared confident, scoring 12 off 17 balls, but a poorly judged attempt at a second run led to his run-out. When Charles Amini was bowled by Frank Nsubuga, PNG's focus shifted to damage control.
Despite efforts from Hiri Hiri (15) and Kiplin Doriga (12), no other batsmen reached double figures, and the Pacific Islanders were bowled out with five balls remaining in their allotted 20 overs.
(With AFP inputs)
