After missing out on playing Uganda’s maiden T20 World Cup match against Afghanistan, the 43-year-old Frank Nsubuga, the oldest player in the 2024 edition of the competition, registered his name in the record books for more reasons than one on Wednesday, June 5, in his side’s clash against Papua New Guinea. Nsubuga became the second oldest player in history to feature in a playing XI in the T20 World Cup after Hong Kong’s Ryan Campbell, who participated in the 2016 edition at 44 years of age.
To make his day even more memorable, Nsubuga starred in Uganda’s performance with the ball, achieving the most economical spell (full four overs) in T20 World Cup history. The seasoned off-spinner took an impressive 2/4 in his miserly show against Papua New Guinea (PNG) on a slow wicket at the Providence Stadium. With this outstanding performance, Nsubuga surpassed the previous record held by South Africa’s Anrich Nortje, who recorded figures of 4/7 just days earlier against Sri Lanka in New York.
The record-breaking performance by Nsubuga has earned him a well-deserved spot among the best economical bowlers in T20 World Cup history. The top figures now read:
– 2/4 (4 overs) – Frank Nsubuga (Uganda) vs PNG, Guyana 2024
– 4/7 (4 overs) – Anrich Nortje (South Africa) vs SL, New York 2024
– 6/8 – Ajantha Mendis (Sri Lanka) vs Zimbabwe, Hambantota 2012
– 1/8 – Mahmudullah (Bangladesh) vs AFG
– 3/8 – Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka) vs UAE, Geelong 2022
Apart from Nsubuga, other Ugandan bowlers played crucial roles as well. Alpesh Ramjani, Cosman Kyewuta, and Juma Miyagi each took two wickets, contributing to PNG being bowled out for a mere 77 runs. The total appeared insufficient for PNG to defend; however, it wasn’t entirely smooth sailing for Uganda.
In Uganda’s chase, early setbacks in the form of three wickets falling in the first 13 balls created a tense atmosphere in their camp. PNG’s early breakthroughs meant that the Ugandan batting needed a composed and strategic approach to overcome the jitters. Riazat Ali, who had faced criticism for his slow 34-ball 11 against Afghanistan, turned out to be the calming influence Uganda required. Ali’s test-match-like patience and methodical game plan proved pivotal.
Demonstrating tremendous resilience and application, Ali scored an invaluable 33 runs off 56 balls.
. His steady partnership with Juma Miyagi was instrumental in steering Uganda towards the target. Miyagi, who chipped in with timely runs, supported Ali in crafting a match-winning partnership. Their combined efforts ensured that Uganda achieved the target with 10 balls to spare, securing a crucial victory.
The victory not only showcased Uganda’s potential on the big stage but also underscored the importance of experience and calmness in pressure situations. Frank Nsubuga’s record-breaking spell and Riazat Ali’s composed batting were testament to the fact that veteran players still have a significant role to play in modern cricket, especially in high-stakes tournaments like the T20 World Cup.
Uganda’s remarkable bowling performance, capped by Nsubuga’s historic spell, will be remembered as a milestone in T20 World Cup history. It highlighted the potential of associate nations in competing fiercely against more established cricketing teams. This game also served as a reminder of the unpredictability and excitements that T20 cricket brings to its global audience.
Apart from the heroics on the field, the Ugandan team’s spirit and resolve were commendable. Their ability to bounce back from a challenging situation and secure a victory speaks volumes about their preparedness and mental fortitude. As the T20 World Cup progresses, teams like Uganda will hope to continue impressing and defying expectations, bringing more thrilling contests to the fans.
With this victory, Uganda has certainly sent a message to other competing teams and established that they are not to be underestimated. This landmark achievement will inspire other players and teams from associate nations, encouraging them to put forth their best efforts on the international stage.
As Frank Nsubuga marks his name in the annals of cricket history, the cricketing world eagerly awaits more such inspiring performances from him and his teammates in the remainder of the T20 World Cup.
