Uganda created history as they recorded their first win in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, defeating Papua New Guinea (PNG) on Thursday (June 6). This was also their first win in a senior ICC event.
Just in their second game of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, Uganda overcame a few hiccups in their run chase to pick up their first win at the tournament.
Uganda captain Brian Masaba won the toss and chose to bowl first. Left-arm spinner Frank Nsubuga collected figures of 2/4 to help bowl out PNG for just 77 at the Guyana National Stadium. In response, Riazat Ali Shah top-scored with 33 and guided Uganda to a three wicket win in 18.2 overs.
Following their triumph, the Ugandan squad gathered on the boundary rope to bow and thank the fans who had traveled from Africa to support them. This emotional act was an homage to their fans and a demonstration of their unity and gratitude.
Their rejoicing did not end there. A video of their joyful song and dance on the field rapidly went viral on social media, highlighting the team's contagious exuberance and the historic significance of their victory.
Here is the video:
"Winning such a match, that too in a World Cup, is pretty special! Getting to the World Cup was special in itself, but this is even more special! We were able to adjust to the conditions quickly, we bowled wicket to wicket and did not give any freebies, so that set up the win," Uganda skipper Brian Masaba said at the post-match presentation.
"We knew that it was going to be tough for us having watched them bat on that wicket, but we stuck to the task, and never gave up. We've got a pretty special group of fans. These guys have travelled halfway around the world to come and support us. I don't think they came expecting to get a World Cup win, so it's the least we can do for them. I hope they feel as special as we do," Masaba said.
Uganda will next play host West Indies in Group C match on June 9, Sunday in Guyana.
