DUBAI: Uganda is gearing up for June’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with a fresh face at the helm, as former India first-class player Abhay Sharma steps in as the new coach for the cricket minnows , signing a three-year deal.
He succeeds Laurence Mahatlane, who recently departed, while interim coach Jackson Ogwang transitions to an assistant role as Uganda prepares for its inaugural appearance at the T20 World Cup.
Despite not representing his country, Sharma boasts an impressive track record with Delhi and Railways, and his coaching acumen has been evident in roles such as the fielding coach for India A and the Under 19 team.
Sharma has already landed in Uganda and eagerly anticipates his tenure leading the African nation’s cricket team. “I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunity to work with such talented cricketers,” Sharma remarked. “Having spent just a few days here, Uganda already feels like a second home to me. The people are warm, and the environment reminds me of India.”
Confident in his team’s abilities, Sharma believes Uganda, placed in Group C alongside co-hosts West Indies, New Zealand, Afghanistan, and Papua New Guinea, can make a mark and surprise opponents at the tournament.
Reflecting on Uganda’s journey to qualification, Sharma observed, “We missed out on a few opportunities in the field during the African leg, yet we still secured our place at the World Cup. Just imagine our potential if we address those lapses. With improved game awareness and mental resilience, we can challenge the best teams on any given day.”
Uganda’s T20 World Cup campaign kicks off against Afghanistan in Guyana on June 5th.
