Uganda Cranes Begin Preparations for World Cup Qualifiers in Kampala

The Uganda Cranes, the national cricket team, have commenced their preparations for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers in Kampala, Uganda. The team, eager to showcase their skills on the global stage, is training at the Serenity Oval in Kamengo, approximately 50 kilometers east of Kampala.

The Uganda Cricket Association is overseeing the team's preparations, ensuring that every aspect of their training is carefully planned. The squad, which includes the experienced 43-year-old Frank Nsubuga, is gearing up for the 2024 T20 World Cup qualifiers. Although specific dates for the qualifiers have not been disclosed, the team's focus remains unwavering.

Prince George Mawanda, a notable player, recently made headlines with his impressive performance in a match where he hit a shot that landed on Jinja road, bringing the score to 106 and helping his team beat the Police 11s by 3 wickets. Mawanda's achievement highlights the growing talent within the team and their readiness to compete at higher levels.

In addition to the cricket team, the Uganda Cranes national football team has also begun training for their World Cup qualification matches against Botswana and Algeria. These matches are scheduled for June 7 and 10 at the Namboole Stadium in Kampala. This will be the team's first match at Namboole Stadium since November 2019, following extensive renovations.

Head coach Paul Put emphasized the importance of mental preparation, stating, "Everyone is hungry as football returns home. If my players are not hungry, if you can play in front of your people, and you are not mentally ready, then it's better to stay at home." Out of the 28 players summoned for the squad, 20 attended the initial training session, which took place on the outside pitch at Namboole Stadium.

Coach Put expressed his regret over the absence of Uche Ikpeazu Mubiru, citing the player's unique physical presence as a significant loss. "It's a pity for us, he is someone with size which can help you change even your system, unlike the rest of the forwards we have," Put explained.

The Uganda Cranes football squad consists of goalkeepers Isma Watenga, Nafian Alionzi, Crispus Kusiima, and Braddy Jeans Wokorach; defenders Kenneth Semakula, Nicholas Mwere, Ronald Otti, Isaac Muleme, Timothy Denis Awany, Elio Capradossi, and Halidi Lwaliwa; midfielders Ronald Ssekiganda, Joel Sserunjogi, and Travis Mutyaba; and forwards Nelson Ssenkatuka, Denis Omedi, Muhammad Shaban, Patrick Jonah Kakande, Umar Lutalo, and Allan Okello.

As both the cricket and football teams prepare for their respective World Cup qualifiers, the anticipation and eagerness among fans and players alike are palpable. The success of these teams could significantly boost the profile of Ugandan sports on the global stage.

Key Takeaways

• Uganda Cranes cricket team prepares for 2024 T20 World Cup qualifiers in Kampala.
• Experienced player Frank Nsubuga, 43, is part of the cricket squad.
• Uganda Cranes football team starts training for World Cup qualifiers against Botswana and Algeria.
• Head coach Paul Put emphasizes mental preparation for the football team.
• Success in World Cup qualifiers could boost Ugandan sports profile globally.