Cricket

Olipa Gerald Powers Uganda to Dominant Opening Win Over Zambia

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 20, 2026, 17:30 IST

Uganda secured a commanding 87-run victory against Zambia in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Africa Sub Regional Qualifier C, led by a blistering 82 from Player of the Match Olipa Gerald.

Olipa Gerald Powers Uganda to Dominant Opening Win Over Zambia

Olipa Gerald Masterclass Sets the Tone

Uganda made a statement in the opening match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Africa Sub Regional Qualifier C, dismantling Zambia by 87 runs at NCF Oval 1 in Abuja. After winning the toss and electing to bat, Uganda posted a formidable total of 195/6, anchored by a spectacular individual performance from Olipa Gerald. Gerald was the clear architect of the innings, smashing 82 runs off just 42 balls to put the Zambian bowlers under immediate pressure. His aggressive approach provided the foundation for Uganda to set a challenging target, with valuable support coming from Riazat Ali Shah, who contributed a quick-fire 38 off 20 balls. For Zambia, Joshep Zulu was the standout performer with the ball, returning figures of 2/36 from his four overs, though he could not prevent the Ugandan batters from dictating the pace of the game.

Zambia Collapse Under Pressure

Chasing 196 for victory, Zambia’s pursuit never found its rhythm, effectively ending before it truly began. The turning point occurred in the very first over when Shadreck Malama fell at 7, setting the tone for a disastrous start. Zambia lost three early wickets, leaving their middle order with too much to do against a disciplined Ugandan bowling attack. Despite a resilient effort from Joyeb Chand, who top-scored for his side with 38 off 28 balls, and some support from Jakir Patel, the Zambian lineup crumbled under the weight of the required run rate. The Ugandan bowlers maintained consistent pressure throughout the innings, with Joseph Baguma and Juma Miyagi delivering standout performances to ensure the result was never in doubt. Zambia was eventually bowled out for 108, handing Uganda a comprehensive win to kick off their tournament campaign in style.