In a low-scoring encounter on a slow pitch in Guyana, Uganda made history by securing their first ICC T20 World Cup victory in only their second-ever game. Bowling first, they dismantled the Papua New Guinea batting lineup, bundling them out for 77. Despite some initial setbacks, Uganda managed to chase down the target.
Chasing 78, Uganda faced early setbacks again, putting them under immense pressure. The openers failed to make an impact, and they lost four wickets inside the Powerplay, soon finding themselves at 26/5. It was Riazat Ali Shah who brought his experience to bear, holding one end strongly. Given a reprieve, he capitalised fully and found solid support from Juma Miyagi. Together, they added 35 crucial runs, shifting the momentum towards Uganda. A miscommunication resulted in Miyagi’s run-out, but Riazat remained steady, scoring 33 runs, although he couldn’t finish the game.
At the death, PNG still had a chance for a dramatic win. Both teams had similar scores after the 15th over, each having lost six wickets. While PNG collapsed, Uganda held their nerve, losing just one more wicket and completing the chase. Kenneth Waiswa hit the winning runs, etching his name in the history books.
Earlier in the match, Papua New Guinea posted a sub-par total with only three batters managing to score in double digits. Uganda excelled with the ball, with all bowlers except Brian Masaba taking two wickets each. Frank Nsubuga delivered an exceptionally economical spell, conceding just 4 runs in his four overs, marking the most economical spell in the T20 World Cup. During their chase, Uganda stumbled to 26/5 but found a hero in Riazat Ali Shah, whose 33-run innings guided them to victory.
Papua New Guinea will be disappointed as they had Uganda in a precarious position and were likely ahead in the game. However, costly mistakes in fielding and catching ultimately proved detrimental to their chances.