Tanzania U-19 Clinch Easter Youth 50-Over Series Title with Victory Over Uganda U-19

Tanzania U-19 were crowned champions of the second edition of the Easter Youth 50-Over Series after a rain-affected final saw them secure a 34-run victory (D/L method) over Uganda U-19 at Lugogo Cricket Oval.

The match, decided via the Duckworth-Lewis method, showcased Tanzania’s composure and all-round brilliance in a tightly contested battle.

After winning the toss and opting to bowl first, Tanzania U-19 capitalized on a worn-out pitch that had endured five days of intense cricket. Their bowlers struck early, unsettling Uganda’s top order. Openers Gerald Olipa and Devansh Patel departed in quick succession, leaving Uganda reeling at 15/2 by the eighth over.

Despite the rocky start, Christopher Kidega provided a lone spark of resistance, anchoring Uganda’s innings with a gritty 55. He stitched together a 79-run partnership with Sohera Richard, briefly steadying the ship. However, once their stand was broken, Uganda’s lower order faltered under relentless pressure from Tanzania’s spin attack.

Hamza Ally Onai (3/33), Augustine Meya Mwamele (3/31), and Raymon Francis Emmanuel (3/42) combined to dismantle Uganda’s batting lineup, bundling them out for a modest 143 in 32.3 overs.

In response, Tanzania U-19 faced early jitters of their own. Uganda’s bowling unit, led by Abdul Aziz Tandia (2/11 in 9 overs, including four maidens), applied pressure and reduced Tanzania to 42/4 by the 17th over.

However, the momentum shifted when Augustine Meya Mwamele (48*) and Acrey Pascal Hugo (45) formed a crucial partnership, steering Tanzania out of danger. Their composed stand ensured Tanzania stayed ahead of the required run rate.

Rain interrupted play after 29 overs, with Tanzania at 112/4 — comfortably surpassing the Duckworth-Lewis target of 78. As the downpour persisted, the match officials called off the game, handing Tanzania the title.

While Uganda’s bowlers showed heart, lapses in the field, including several dropped catches, allowed Tanzania to seize control at vital moments.

With this victory, Tanzania U-19 lifted the Easter Youth 50-Over Series trophy, leaving Uganda U-19 to settle for a runners-up finish.

Individual Awards

• Best Batter: Dylan Manish Tharkar (Tanzania U-19)
• Best Bowler: Balidawa Ali (Uganda U-19)
• Most Valuable Player (MVP): Christopher Kidega (Uganda U-19)

The series not only highlighted the rising talent in East African youth cricket but also set the stage for both teams as they gear up for upcoming international tournaments.