Uganda claim first T20 World Cup victory against Papua New Guinea

Uganda secured their inaugural T20 World Cup victory with a three-wicket triumph over Papua New Guinea (PNG) at Providence Stadium on Wednesday.

Despite a low-scoring and tense encounter, the African team managed to bowl out PNG for 77 runs. Although Uganda faced a challenging start at 26-5, they successfully chased down the target in 18.2 overs, with Riazat Ali Shah leading the way with a top score of 33.

Riazat's crucial partnership of 35 runs for the sixth wicket with Juma Miyagi proved to be the turning point in the game for the tournament newcomers.

However, PNG will regret the missed opportunity when Riazat, on eight, was dropped by Charles Amini, who misjudged a relatively straightforward catch.

Despite defending a low total, PNG struggled due to some loose bowling, conceding 15 wides. After the fortunate escape, Riazat played a disciplined and focused innings until he skied a catch to John Kariko at third man when only three runs were needed to secure victory.

The Ugandan team celebrated their historic win by dancing on the edge of the field, as they earned their first points in the tournament after surpassing more established cricketing nation Zimbabwe to qualify.

Uganda skipper Brian Masaba expressed his delight, stating, "This is a truly special win for us. It's our first win at the World Cup. I am extremely proud of this group of players. They have worked hard and put in a tremendous effort.

To secure a victory for our country at the World Cup is an incredibly special moment." Masaba had won the toss and elected to field first, a decision that paid off when Alpesh Ramjani dismissed PNG captain Assad Vala with the second ball of the innings, trapping him lbw in what turned out to be a wicket-maiden opening over.

Sese Bau attempted to drive Juma Miyagi, but Roger Mukasa managed to snaffle up the catch from mid-off.

Tony Ura suffered a similar fate, as his drive off Cosmas Kyewuta was caught by Mukasa at mid-on, leaving his team struggling at 19-3 in the fourth over.

Lega Siaka looked confident with 12 runs off 17 balls, but a run-out ended his innings prematurely. Charles Amini's dismissal by Frank Nsubuga signaled a time for damage limitation.

Hiri Hiri (15) and Kiplin Doriga (12) were the only ones to reach double figures as the Pacific Islanders were bowled out with five balls remaining in their 20 overs.