Uganda re-call Almuzahim and Nandikishore

Uganda coach Mohammed Ebrahim Barney has re-called former Under-19 captain Hamza Almuzahim and batsman Nandikishore Patel in the hope of boosting the national side’s fragile batting line-up as Uganda begin preparations for their ICC Intercontinental Shield four-day game against Namibia, which starts on September 18.

Almuzahim has returned to Uganda from England and has recovered from the injury problems that curtailed his semi-professional stint at Bourton Vale CC in North London.

Uganda are currently at the top of the points table in the competition with 29, but Namibia are only three points behind them and recently crushed Bermuda by an innings and 185 runs at Wanderers Cricket Ground in Windhoek.

“It’s nice to have Hamza back in the squad,” said Barney. “He is rated highly. I saw him bat and he is the sort of guy who can drive the ball well down the ground. Nandi also has a proven record and his inclusion will be key. But these two have to prove themselves.”

The provisional squad of 20 is currently training at Lugogo. Uganda will also play Namibia in a series of Twenty20 and limited-overs games after their Intercontinental Shield encounter.