PNG encounters second World Cup loss to Uganda

Papua New Guinea’s hopes for a finals berth in the ICC T20 World Cup are slowly fading after facing Uganda with a three-wicket loss.

The group C encounter was a thriller as both sides were in search of a first win in the 2024 world cup edition in Guyana, West Indies.

PNG led by skipper Assad Vala won the toss and opted to bat first with hopes to put on a strong performance after a poised outing against the host team last Sunday.

But Uganda set the captivating frame in the first innings with its bowling spell that dismantled PNG’s batting within 19.1 overs, recording a historic maiden win in world cup.  

PNG managed 77 runs all out with Hiri Hiri contributing 15 from 19 balls and Lega Siaka adding 12 runs as the duo contributed a quarter of the points in the low-scoring game.   

The PNG Barramundis started slow on the pitch as Uganda’s bowling duo Frank Nsubuga and Juma Miyagi restricted their opponents from establishing runs.

With Uganda chasing a target of 78 runs, PNG’s fast-pace bowler Alei Nao made a prominent start when he removed Roger Mukusa in the opening over, followed by a confident-boost move by Norman Vanua, who detached Robinson Obuya.

PNG were on the rise to victory when veteran and captain Assad Vala produced a stunning play to catch and bowl Dinesh Nakrani.

But Uganda’s emerging star Riazat Ali Shah rescued his country with concrete batting performance which saw him post 33 runs from 56 balls.

Uganda reached the target in the 19th over to come out victors in the second match.