Uganda vs Botswana T20 Match Preview – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Region Final

Date: 30 September 2025
Time: 08:30 AM GMT (01:00 PM Local Time)
Venue: Takashinga Sports Club, Highfield, Harare
Competition: ICC Men's T20 World Cup Africa Region Final – Group B
Match Number: 9th Match

Match Context

The Uganda vs Botswana clash in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Region Final promises to be an intriguing encounter as two strong yet emerging African cricketing nations look to secure vital points in their quest for qualification to the global stage. This will be the first meeting between the two teams in a T20 competition, adding an extra layer of novelty to the match.

Both teams have shown promise in recent tournaments, with Uganda having consistently been a strong contender in regional cricket, while Botswana have been steadily improving their performance and squad depth.

Team Form and Strengths

Uganda

Uganda, ranked among the top teams in African T20 cricket, brings a well-balanced squad with experienced campaigners and promising young talent. The team is known for its disciplined bowling and strong fielding. Key players like Ssenyonyi, Sobuco, and Nsubuga bring a blend of pace, spin, and explosive batting. Their middle order is particularly strong, with players capable of accelerating the innings when needed.

Botswana

Botswana has been making a name for itself in recent regional competitions. Their batting line-up has shown resilience, and the team is not easily bowled out. The likes of Molefe, Lekgabe, and Sekhate have been consistent performers. Botswana’s strength lies in their aggressive batting and adaptability to different conditions.

Key Match-Up Considerations

• Pitch and Conditions: The pitch at Takashinga Sports Club is generally good for all-round play, with a slight edge towards spinners in the middle overs. The team winning the toss will likely have the luxury of batting second, given the dew factor in the evening.
• Toss Impact: The toss could be crucial in this match, especially given the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket. A win in the toss and a decision to bowl first might offer the better chance to restrict the opposition.
• Player Form: Both teams will be relying heavily on their top-order batters to set the foundation and the middle-order to accelerate. Bowling accuracy and fielding efficiency will be key in a low-scoring match.

Prediction and Fantasy Tips

• Toss Winner Prediction: Uganda is expected to win the toss and choose to bowl first.
• Match Winner Prediction: While Uganda holds a slight edge in experience and consistency, Botswana’s growing confidence and aggressive approach could make this a close contest. Uganda to win by 5-7 runs is the predicted outcome.
• Top Performers to Watch:
  • Uganda: Ibrahim Ssenyonyi (Batter), Farooq Ahmed (Bowler)
  • Botswana: Tafadzwa Molefe (Batter), Thato Lekgabe (Bowler)
• Fantasy Team Tips: Pick one all-rounder from each side and include a spin bowler given the expected pitch conditions. Prioritize batters with a strong strike rate.

Probable Playing XI

Uganda (XI):

1. Ibrahim Ssenyonyi
2. Farooq Ahmed
3. Captain – Ssenyonyi
4. Josephat Mwesigwa
5. Ibrahim Khalil
6. Ibrahim Ssemanda
7. Farooq Ahmed (Bowler)
8. Ssentongo
9. Muhammad Kasim
10. Rameez Khan
11. Ssentongo (Wicket-keeper)

Botswana (XI):

1. Tafadzwa Molefe
2. Thato Lekgabe
3. Captain – Lekgabe
4. Sipho Khumalo
5. Thato Sekhate
6. Lekgabe (Bowler)
7. Sipho Khumalo (Bowler)
8. Sipho Khumalo (All-rounder)
9. Thato Sekhate (Batter)
10. Sekhate (Wicket-keeper)
11. Sipho Khumalo (All-rounder)

Conclusion

The Uganda vs Botswana T20 match on 30 September 2025 will be a crucial encounter in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Region Final. With both teams eager to progress and make a strong statement, the match is expected to be competitive and highly entertaining. Uganda's experience and balanced squad give them a slight edge, but Botswana's aggressive style could make for a thrilling contest.

Final Verdict: Uganda to win by a narrow margin, with Botswana providing a strong challenge.
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