Skipper backs ‘new boys’ as team flies to UAE

Cricket. The team is scheduled to play four day/night matches comprising two 50-over and two T20 games apiece.

Uganda skipper Davis Karashani has backed new players on the team and predicted that they will come good once they gel into the squad properly.

South Africa-based Khalid Moothosamy, Shaaiq Choudhry Hussain (from United Kingdom), Australian-born Mitch Horrocks and Mohammed Shafeek were part of the 16-man delegation that was flagged off for a series of friendlies to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by National Council of Sports general secretary Jasper Aligawesa at Lugogo yesterday. “We have welcomed them,” Karashani said of the quartet.

“The rest of the squad is trying its best to make sure they have a conducive atmosphere so that they fit in without a hustle.”

Choudhry joined the team and engaged in separate drills with coach Martin Suji on Tuesday afternoon.Before yesterday’s trip, Moothosamy had spent a week in Uganda and played three trial matches.

“It has been great working with all players and the coaches,” said the all-rounder. He picked three wickets and scored a half century in the respective first and second trial matches at Kyambogo at the weekend. He showed his other qualities with an impressive shift behind the wickets during a 50-over game against a select U-19 Boys side on Wednesday.

“They are good players. But it is important we do not put them under any pressure,” reasoned Karashani.

“We have got to allow them to relax and express themselves. Then the good displays will come.” Horrocks, who helped Tornado win the league last year, qualifies to play for Uganda after having lived here for more than three years doing charity work whereas Shafeek, who works at Crane Bank, has been plying his trade for Challengers in the local competitions for the last five years.

Shafeek was also a core member of Rwenzori Warriors - the local Ugandan franchise that is among the nominees for the 2012 Nile Special-Uspa Team of the Year accolade.

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