Age no barrier: Uganda's Frank Nsubuga set to become oldest player at this year's T20 World Cup

Frank Nsubuga (Pic: X)

Uganda's veteran off-spinner, Frank Nsubuga, is poised to etch his name in cricketing history as the oldest player to grace this year's T20 World Cup. At the age of 43, Nsubuga's remarkable journey truly embodies perseverance and passion for the sport.

Hailing from Kampala, Nsubuga's inclusion in the national squad marks a significant milestone not only for him but also for Ugandan cricket. The Uganda Cricket Association on Monday unveiled their formidable 15-member squad for the prestigious tournament, marking the country's maiden appearance in the main round of the T20 World Cup.

Leading the charge for Uganda will be Brian Masaba, a seasoned campaigner in his own right, who has been entrusted with the captaincy duties. Masaba's leadership prowess combined with his experience on the field will be pivotal in guiding the team through the rigors of international competition. Assisting Masaba in steering the team towards success will be the talented Riazat Ali Shah, appointed as his deputy.

Uganda's path to the T20 World Cup was paved through sheer determination and excellence on the cricketing field. In the fiercely contested Africa Qualifiers, Uganda showcased their prowess by securing a commendable second-place finish in the Regional Final, narrowly trailing behind Namibia. This stellar performance earned them a coveted spot in the prestigious tournament, showcasing the nation's growing prominence in the global cricketing landscape.

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As Uganda prepares to embark on their T20 World Cup campaign, they are set to face formidable opponents in Group C. Their journey commences with a high-stakes encounter against Afghanistan on June 3 in Guyana. The group stage fixtures also pit Uganda against cricketing powerhouses such as New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and the hosts, West Indies, promising exhilarating clashes and thrilling displays of cricketing prowess.

For Frank Nsubuga though, this momentous occasion symbolizes the culmination of years of dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the sport he loves. Despite the passage of time, Nsubuga's passion for cricket remains undiminished, serving as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers and veterans alike. His presence on the field not only adds depth to Uganda's bowling arsenal but also serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of cricket.

As the oldest player in this year's T20 World Cup, Nsubuga's journey is a testament to the timeless allure of cricket, transcending age and barriers. His mere presence on the field embodies the spirit of resilience and perseverance, showcasing that age is no impediment to chasing one's dreams and leaving an indelible mark on the cricketing world.

Squad: Brian Masaba (c), Riazat Ali Shah (vc), Kenneth Waiswa, Dinesh Nakrani, Frank Nsubuga, Ronak Patel, Roger Mukasa, Cosmas Kyewuta, Bilal Hassun, Fred Achelam, Robinson Obuya, Simon Ssesazi, Henry Ssenyondo, Alpesh Ramjani and Juma Miyaji

Reserve players: Ronald Lutaaya and Innocent Mwebaze