Uganda’s Cricket Cranes have announced a strong squad for the decisive final round of the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B, with Riazat Ali Shah returning to captain the team as they chase a historic qualification milestone.
The tournament, set to take place in Tanzania from August 6 to 19, 2026, will be a crucial test for Uganda as they aim to secure a place in the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier Play-off tournament and move closer to earning One-Day International (ODI) status.
After missing Uganda’s previous tour of Mumbai, India, in May, Riazat’s return comes at a significant time for the national team. His leadership, experience and ability to influence matches with both bat and ball provide a major boost ahead of a tournament where every performance will carry enormous importance.
The captain will be expected to guide a confident Cricket Cranes side that has built an impressive campaign throughout the Challenge League B competition.The Cricket Cranes head into the final round with momentum and belief after producing a remarkable run in the opening two phases of the tournament.
Uganda currently leads the standings with 18 points from 10 matches, placing them in a commanding position as they enter the closing stage of the qualification race. A strong finish in Tanzania would see Uganda maintain their position at the top and secure progression to the next step on the road to the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup.
Beyond qualification, the tournament presents Uganda with an opportunity to create a historic moment in the country’s sporting journey. If the Cricket Cranes remain at the top of the group after the final round, they will become the 26th nation to achieve ODI status, a landmark achievement that would significantly transform the profile of Ugandan cricket and open doors to more regular competition against the world’s leading teams.
Uganda will face five demanding fixtures in Tanzania as they battle against hosts Tanzania, Bahrain, Hong Kong-China, Italy and Singapore in the final of the three scheduled rounds. With qualification places and valuable points at stake, the Cricket Cranes will need to maintain the consistency, discipline and fighting spirit that has carried them to the top of the standings. Each match will provide a fresh challenge as Uganda looks to complete the campaign in style.
The team will be under the guidance of head coach Steven Tikolo, who returned to the national setup earlier this year following his reappointment after replacing Abhay Sharma. Tikolo’s experience and understanding of the international game will be crucial as Uganda approaches this high-pressure stage of the competition. He will be supported by a talented squad, with Robinson Obuya and Mathew Musinguzi included as reserve players ready to provide cover when required.
The final squad also features the return of several key players who were unavailable during the Mumbai assignment. Kenneth Waiswa, Cyrus Kakuru and Sumeet Verma have been recalled, adding valuable experience, depth and versatility to the team. Their inclusion strengthens Uganda’s options across all departments and gives the technical team greater flexibility as they prepare for a challenging series of encounters.
Captain Riazat Ali Shah will lead a balanced squad featuring Fred Achelam, Dinesh Nakrani, Cyrus Kakuru, Alpesh Ramjani, Juma Miyaji, Henry Ssenyondo, Cosmas Kyewuta, vice-captain Kenneth Waiswa, Raghav Dhawan, Gerald Olipa, Sumeet Verma, Joseph Baguma and Simon Ssesazi. The reserve pair comprises Robinson Obuya and Mathew Musinguzi, ensuring the team has additional quality available throughout the tournament.
With the opportunity to secure qualification and achieve a historic ODI status milestone firmly within reach, the Cricket Cranes travel to Tanzania carrying the hopes and expectations of Ugandan cricket fans. The final round of the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League B represents more than just a tournament; it is a chance for Uganda to confirm its rapid growth on the international stage and write another memorable chapter in the nation’s cricket history.
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