Kololo favourites as UCA launch boys’ cricket week local body Uganda Cricket Association (UCA) unveiled a Shs45m sponsorship from Crown Beverages brand Pepsi on Thursday.
The financial arm will help UCA facilitate 12 sides that will partake in the August 24-31 showpiece at five different ovals in Lugogo, Kyambogo, Budo (2) and Agha Khan. “We are grateful to Pepsi,” UCA CEO Justin Ligyalingi told Kawowo Sports. “Their continued support has improved the class of the sport at this youth level.” “We are committed to growing our partnership with cricket in Uganda and particularly engaging the youngsters.” Pepsi brand manager Timothy Luzinda said. Titleholders Kololo SS will stand out as outright favourites as they seek to win their seventh title in eight years.
Kololo will have some spice in Mohammed Akmal and U-16 captain all-rounder Siraje Nsubuga as well as U-19 once promising batsman Abdallah Lubega.
Such dominance will only come at the expense of opposition such as Mukono Parents School, Agha Khan, record winners Busoga College Mwiri as well as Jinja SS. Mukono, who defeated Kololo to win the Central region qualifiers, have made the semifinals since 2010.
They have players like Derrick Bakunzi, brothers Lawrence Ssempijja and Simon Ssesaazi to look up to for a maiden title.
Meanwhile, Ndejje SS make a comeback to the tournament having missed the last two editions.