Uganda’s T20 World Cup Squad Unveiled: 43-Year-Old Frank Nsubuga Makes History

In a historic announcement, Uganda revealed their 15-player squad for the much-anticipated T20 World Cup, with Brian Masaba leading the charge as captain. Riazat Ali Shah assumes the role of Masaba’s deputy, adding depth to the team’s leadership core. Notably, the squad features the seasoned 43-year-old cricketer, Frank Nsubuga, whose inclusion marks a significant milestone in the nation’s cricketing journey.

Uganda’s journey to the T20 World Cup Group C play has been nothing short of remarkable. After stunning performances in qualifying, including victories over Zimbabwe and other African powerhouses, Uganda finds itself pitted against co-hosts West Indies, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Afghanistan.

Frank Nsubuga’s presence in the squad symbolizes more than just experience; it embodies a lifelong dedication to the sport. Nsubuga’s cricketing odyssey began at the tender age of 17 when he represented Uganda in his maiden ICC Trophy, a stepping stone towards the 1999 Cricket World Cup. Now, a quarter-century later, his enduring passion for the game remains undiminished, highlighted by his awe-inspiring catch during a Cricket World Cup Challenge League match against Kenya in 2022.

But Nsubuga isn’t the only star in Uganda’s constellation. Alpesh Ramjani, a spin-bowling all-rounder, has captured attention with his stellar performances, earning a nomination for the prestigious 2023 ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year award. Alongside him, the likes of Riazat Ali Shah, Dinesh Nakrani, and the promising Juma Miyaji bring firepower to Uganda’s batting lineup, promising to score runs at a brisk rate.

While Uganda may be making its debut in a senior men’s World Cup, the nation boasts a rich cricketing heritage. Decades ago, Uganda was represented in the international arena by the East Africa squad, which graced the 1975 Cricket World Cup stage. Now, as Uganda prepares to embark on its T20 World Cup journey, the team carries with it the hopes and dreams of a nation, fueled by the legacy of its cricketing pioneers.

Come June 3, Uganda will kick off its T20 World Cup campaign against Afghanistan in Guyana, ready to script a new chapter in the annals of cricketing history.

Squad Announcement:

Captain: Brian Masaba
Vice-Captain: Riazat Ali Shah

Players: Simon Ssesazi, Roger Mukasa, Cosmas Kyewuta, Dinesh Nakrani, Fred Achelam, Kenneth Waiswa, Alpesh Ramjani, Frank Nsubuga, Henry Ssenyondo, Bilal Hassun, Robinson Obuya, Juma Miyaji, Ronak Patel

Travelling Reserves: Innocent Mwebaze, Ronald Lutaaya