David GOMBE
The Cricket Cranes received a grand send-off at a dinner hosted at Mestil Hotel, Nsambya, Saturday night, ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
The event, dubbed ‘The Last
Supper,’ allowed the team to relax and enjoy the evening with members of the cricket fraternity, thanks to their generous sponsors, Lyca Mobile.
Clad in white tops and grey pants, the Cricket Cranes were joined by the Minister of State for
Sports, Peter Ogwang, UCA board members, Victoria Pearls team members, Lyca Mobile officials, and journalists.
“We are happy to be sent off in good spirits and to know that so many people are behind us and the game,” said team captain Brian Masaba. Reflecting on their recent visit to Sri Lanka, he added,
“We see the support from Lyca in a bigger perspective because it offers opportunities for the sport to grow, even in terms of infrastructure.”
The Sports Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to cricket, announcing increased funding from Shs1.2 billion to Shs3 billion for the 2024/25 financial year. “Go and prove yourselves. Be disciplined, work hard, believe in God, and be respectful,” Ogwang advised.
The send-off dinner marked an important milestone for the Cricket Cranes as they head to the World Cup, supported by their sponsors, the government, and the Ugandan cricket community.
It is the senior men’s national cricket team for Uganda known for its dedication to excellence and commitment to the sport.
Uganda Cricket Cranes will be making their maiden appearance will take on 2021 finalists New Zealand (Blackcaps), co-hosts & 2-time winners Windies Cricket, Afghanistan Cricket and Papua New Guinea in Group C.
With a rich history and a passionate fan base, the Cricket Cranes strive for success on and off the field. The Cricket Cranes are currently preparing for the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA from June 4th– 30th.
The T20 World Cup 2024 group stage will be held from June 1 to 18, followed by the Super Eight phase from June 19 to 24. The semi-finals will be on June 26 and 27 in Guyana and Trinidad, respectively, while the final will be on June 29 in Barbados.
The 2024 T20 World Cup Groups
Group A: India, Pakistan, Ireland, Canada, USA
Group B: England, Australia, Namibia, Scotland, Oman
Group C: New Zealand, West Indies, Afghanistan, Uganda, Papua New Guinea
Group D: South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Netherlands, Nepal
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