Uganda’s Cricket Cranes suffered a heavy 98-run defeat to Namibia’s Eagles in the third and decisive T20, handing the hosts a 2-1 series victory at the newly opened FNB Namibia Cricket Ground.
Uganda came into the match with momentum after winning the second game but failed to carry it forward, struggling with the bat despite a disciplined start with the ball.
The pace pair of Cosmas Kyewuta and Juma Miyaji impressed early, keeping Namibia quiet and building pressure. However, extras and missed chances in the field allowed the hosts to recover.
Jan Frylinck scored 20 and Nicol Loftie-Eaton added 30 to steady the innings before Louren Steenkamp took charge. He struck a brilliant 82 off 52 balls, hitting eight fours and four sixes to guide Namibia to 169 for 6.
Miyaji (3/32) and Kyewuta (2/21) led Uganda’s bowling effort, but Namibia finished strongly to post a challenging total.
In response, Uganda started well at 19 without loss but quickly lost control against Namibia’s pace attack. Captain JJ Smit rotated his bowlers effectively, with the short ball proving difficult to handle.
Max Heingo starred with the ball, taking 4 for 9 and earning Player of the Match honors, while Ruben Trumpelmann picked up 2 for 7. Uganda was eventually bowled out for 71.
With the T20 series done, Uganda now shifts focus to the 50-over matches starting March 23 and the other match on March 25, aiming to bounce back and build consistency.
Both teams are targeting qualification for the 2028 T20 World Cup and the 2027 ODI World Cup through different pathways.
