Uganda Triumphs in Low-Scoring Thriller for Maiden T20 World Cup Victory
Uganda secures their first-ever T20 World Cup win in a nail-biting, low-scoring game against Papua New Guinea. Discover how they achieved this historic victory.
In a game that will be remembered for its tension and drama, Uganda emerged victorious against Papua New Guinea (PNG) in their second match of the T20 World Cup. Despite a heavy defeat to Afghanistan in their opener, Uganda bounced back to clinch a historic win. This low-scoring encounter saw Uganda hold their nerve in a thrilling finish, marking their first-ever World Cup victory.
Key Moments and Game Analysis
The Decisive Death Overs
Uganda's composure at the death made all the difference. Both teams had nearly identical scores and had lost six wickets each by the 15th over. However, while PNG collapsed, Uganda managed to secure the win, even though they lost a wicket during this phase.
Parameters Uganda PNG
Runs 21 13
Wickets 4 1
Papua New Guinea's Innings
Powerplay: A Rocky Start
Score - 33/3 [RR: 5.5, 4s/6s: 3/0]
PNG’s captain departed for a second-ball duck, setting the tone for a tough innings. Despite a few boundaries, losing two more wickets in quick succession hampered their progress.
Middle Overs: Continued Struggles
Score - 23/3 [RR: 2.55, 4s/6s: 1/0]
This phase saw just one boundary as PNG's batsmen struggled to score against spin on a slow, low surface. Frank Nsubuga's exceptional spell (4-2-4-2) stifled PNG, marking the most economical bowling figures in T20 World Cup history.
Death Overs: Swift Demise
Score - 21/4 [RR: 5.04, 4s/6s: 0/1]
Kiplin Doriga’s lone six was the only highlight as PNG lost wickets rapidly, finishing all out for 77 in 19.1 overs.
Uganda's Innings
Powerplay: PNG Strikes Back
Score - 25/4 [RR: 6.25, 4s/6s: 1/0]
Uganda's start was equally shaky, losing three quick wickets and managing just 25 runs with the help of numerous wides.
Middle Overs: Steadying the Ship
Score - 40/2 [RR: 4.44, 4s/6s: 1/0]
Assad Vala struck immediately post powerplay, reducing Uganda to 26/5. However, Riazat Ali Shah and Miyagi’s cautious approach stabilized the innings. Despite a run-out, they managed to keep the score ticking.
Death Overs: Clinching Victory
Score - 13/1 [RR: 3.90, 4s/6s: 0/0]
With a small target, Uganda's single-minded focus on regular singles brought them within reach. Despite Riazat's dismissal while attempting a big shot, Uganda sealed the win with 10 balls to spare.
Brief Scores:
PNG 77 in 19.1 overs (Frank Nsubuga 2/4, Juma Miyagi 2/10) lost to Uganda 78/7 in 18.2 overs (Riazat Ali Khan 33; Alei Nao 2/16) by 3 wickets.
Looking Ahead
With this crucial victory, Uganda will face the hosts West Indies on Saturday at the same venue, seeking to build on their momentum. PNG, after a tough loss, will regroup for their next challenge against Afghanistan in Trinidad on June 13.
This match against PNG was Uganda’s best chance to open their account, and they took it with both hands. Now, they look forward to tougher challenges with renewed confidence and a historic win under their belt.
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