Irfan Afridi was the difference the last time Cricket Cranes played Malaysia in Kampala. His unbeaten century deflated Malaysia who had been in a commanding position.
A year later the two sides meet with Malaysia as hosts and a largely different Cricket Cranes team, though Malaysia will still have to deal with Afridi again.
Both sides dropped down from Division 3 and this first game will define the rest of the tournament for both countries.
The Cricket Cranes will need to get off to a flyer so as to give confidence to the new players. Opening batsman Simon Ssesazi and wicketkeeper Fred Achelam all make their full debuts in a major tournament for Uganda while Kenneth Waiswa and Stephen Wabwose may also get a look in.
Captain Roger Mukasa and Ham Kayondo will have to carry the burden of run scoring in the absence of Shahzad Kamal.
Bilal Hassan and Henry Ssenyondo will be the go to wicket takers of the side.
The game will bowl off at 4:00am (EAT) on Sunday.