The Uganda Cricket Association (UCA) is set to host the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cricket League Division III Tournament.
The event which will take place from 23rd to 30th May, 2017 at the Lugogo, Kyambogo and Entebbe Ovals was announced on Friday April 21st.
At the launch, UCA also unveiled the Local Organising Committee that will be chaired by Paul Kaheru, and Tournament Director Justine Ligyalingi.
Six countries are scheduled to participate in this global showpiece, including Canada, Malaysia, Oman, Singapore, Uganda and the United States of America.
The teams will be in town to exchange pleasantries with Uganda not only for the coveted trophy but also to vie for the two slots at stake for promotion to the Division II of the World Cricket League.
The Trophy for the World Cricket League Division III Tournament arrived in Uganda from the USA on Tuesday April 18th.
“We are certain that the games will be played in the true spirit of CRICKET and we are optimistic that our team will ensure the Trophy stays here in Uganda at the end of the showpiece,” said UCA Chairman Bashir ‘Badu’ Ansasira.
“The ICC has trusted Uganda to host such a huge international event and we will not let them down. We will make Uganda proud and after this, we will definitely be granted many more international events to host,” said Paul Kaheru, the Chairman of the LOC.
“We have gone a long spell without hosting an international event and this opportunity gives us a chance to show how beautiful our country is, and our competencies in hosting international events. And, of course, to share our famed hospitality as Ugandans with cricketers and the cricketing fraternity that will travel here for the tournament or watch the games on television,” he added.
UCA Chairman Ansasira said Uganda was targeting promotion to a higher Division.
“We have spent too long in Division III yet we know we are much, much better than this. The team is hungry to deliver. Many of you have witnessed the team’s desire to perform and win. It was on full display at the recent Easter Series against Kenya where our boys won quite decisively!” he said.
“During the May showpiece there will be many brilliant cricketers on display. Many of them are world class players and will be a delight to watch. We invite all Ugandans to turn up in large numbers to have a glimpse of priceless action at no cost and also cheer on our boys – The Cricket Cranes. This is our time to shine…both on and off the pitch!”
Other members of the LOC include Kenneth Mulondo (Accreditation), Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) in charge of General Duties Andrew Sorowen (Security), Dr. David Meya (Medical), Eric Kamara (Liaison), Rita Tinka (Catering), Hanumant Katkar (Stadia), Martin Ondeko (Transport), Alvin Mboijana Bagaya (Accommodation), and Innocent Ndawula (Media & Communications).
The Committee pledged to ensure all Ugandans feel proud of Uganda as a result of the World Cricket League Division III Tournament.