Uganda vs Kenya T20I Preview – Pearl of Africa T20I Series 2025

Date: 26 July 2025
Time: 08:00 GMT
Venue: Entebbe Cricket Oval, Entebbe
Series: Pearl of Africa T20I Series 2025
Match: Match 9

Match Preview

The ninth match of the Pearl of Africa T20I Series 2025 promises to be a captivating encounter between two of Africa's emerging cricketing powers — Uganda and Kenya. Set to take place at the Entebbe Cricket Oval, the match is expected to draw a strong crowd, as both nations look to assert their dominance in the regional cricketing landscape.

Team Form & Performance

Uganda, currently on a roll, has been in impressive form, having won their last five matches in the series. Their recent victory against Kenya on 25 July 2025 (Match 8) saw them clinch a 28-run win, showcasing their resilience and adaptability under pressure. Uganda’s balanced squad, with strong batting depth and a potent pace attack, has been a key factor in their success.

Kenya, on the other hand, are coming off the back of a narrow 20-run defeat to the United Arab Emirates in the 8th match. While they lost that contest, Kenya have shown glimpses of their potential, particularly in their first match of the series, where they defeated Uganda by 20 runs. Their top-order batters have been in fine form, and their spinners are expected to provide a solid foundation in the middle overs.

Key Players to Watch

• Uganda:

  • Mohammed Katongole – The experienced all-rounder has been a consistent performer with both bat and ball.
  • Ismael Wangiwang – A wicket-taking seamer with the ability to swing the ball, Wangiwang has been instrumental in Uganda’s recent wins.
  • Faiz Fazli – The explosive opener, who has been in scintillating form in the series, could be the key to Uganda's chase.

• Kenya:

  • Vincent Munyongo – The wicketkeeper-batsman has been Kenya’s most reliable performer in the middle order.
  • Njoroge Maina – His left-arm spin has been a key weapon for Kenya, especially in the death overs.
  • Josephat Mwangi – A dynamic opening batsman, Mwangi’s aggressive strokeplay can set the tone early in the innings.

Pitch & Conditions

The Entebbe Cricket Oval has been a neutral and fair-paced venue so far in the series, offering good assistance to both batters and bowlers. The pitch is expected to be slightly slow in the middle, making it a bit of a chase-friendly surface. With the weather forecast indicating overcast conditions, the toss could play a crucial role in the game's outcome.

Head-to-Head

The head-to-head record between Uganda and Kenya remains tightly contested, with both teams having tasted victory in recent encounters. Kenya’s win in the first match of the series (20 runs) was a testament to their ability to perform under pressure, while Uganda's recent dominance (77-run and 28-run wins) suggests that they are currently in a stronger position.

Prediction

Uganda’s current form and recent performances give them a slight edge going into this match. However, Kenya have the experience of playing at the venue and the determination to bounce back from their recent loss. This should be a closely fought contest, with the result likely to hinge on how the top orders perform and how the spinners handle the middle overs.

Prediction: A tight match, but Uganda are slight favorites to win due to their strong form and balanced squad.

Final Thoughts

The Uganda vs Kenya clash is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated matches in the Pearl of Africa T20I Series. With both teams eager to make a statement, the match promises to deliver high-octane cricket and some thrilling moments. Fans can look forward to a battle between two of Africa’s top teams, with the result potentially having a significant impact on the series' overall outcome.

Time to get ready — the cricket is about to get exciting!
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