The third edition of the ILT20 Continental Cup ended on Saturday, September 19, with Kenya lifting the trophy after beating Uganda by 39 runs in the final at Gahanga Cricket Stadium. Kenya posted 170/7 in their 20 overs before bowling Uganda out for 131 in 17.5 overs to complete an unbeaten title-winning campaign that also saw them overcome Rwanda, Sierra Leone and Botswana. Kenya produced a strong batting display, led by Dhiren Gondaria, who top-scored with 44 off 32 balls. Brian Likavu added 41 off 21, while Sachin Gill contributed 22 off 28. Uganda’s chase was led by Riazat Ali Shah, who scored 53 off 33 balls, while Kenneth Waiswa added 17 off 13. ALSO READ: Cricket: Uganda take revenge on Kenya ahead of ILT20 final Kenya coach Joseph Angara said the title was the result of a team that learned to adapt, particularly as the pressure increased during the tournament. “I want to thank the boys for the effort and sacrifice they have made to come to this tournament. It wasn't easy to get here because all the teams have really improved,” Angara said. He said Kenya’s willingness to step outside their comfort zone proved decisive in the final. “We just need to believe in ourselves. We stepped out of our comfort zone, we fought hard and we had to change our approach when we got here, looking at the conditions that were there,” he said. The victory was particularly significant for a Kenyan side that sees regular competition against neighbouring countries as important to its development. “We rarely play in it. We don't play enough. We need to play these kinds of games,” Angara said, highlighting the value of competing regularly against teams such as Uganda, Rwanda and Botswana. The celebrations will be brief, however, with Kenya set to return home next month to prepare for the Challenge League, which will be held in Nairobi. ALSO READ: Kenya, Uganda strengthen final push as Rwanda stumble Gondaria takes MVP honours Kenya’s triumph was complemented by a standout individual campaign from captain Gondaria, who was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP). Gondaria finished the tournament with 748 runs from seven matches, while also taking three wickets and five catches to underline his all-round contribution. “I wasn't very excited, but I was excited to win the trophy. For me, the only thing that matters is winning the tournament for Kenya,” he said. He credited the team’s confidence and supportive dressing-room environment for helping the players perform consistently. “It's the confidence the team has given us. The hope the team has given us. It was about applying it ourselves on the field,” he added. ALSO READ: Khan lifts Rwanda back into ILT20 Continent Cup contention Although Uganda fell short in the final, the defending champions still claimed two major individual awards. Joseph Baguma was named the tournament’s best bowler after taking 17 wickets at an economy rate of 5.19, while teammate Gerald Olipa was named the best batter after scoring 375 runs. The two awards offered Uganda some consolation after a campaign that ultimately ended with defeat in the final. Rwanda earns hosting praise despite title loss Beyond the result, the tournament gave Rwanda an opportunity to host some of the continent’s emerging cricket nations and provide players with valuable exposure to regional competition. Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Botswana and Sierra Leone competed throughout the tournament, creating a competitive environment and allowing players to test themselves against familiar regional opponents. Rwanda Cricket Federation president Stephen Musaale said the tournament demonstrated the value of bringing African teams together. He thanked the participating teams for their commitment and praised the discipline and unity displayed throughout the competition. “We see discipline, good competition and unity. And all the players, don't hesitate during your time to come back. You are most welcome. Rwanda is your home,” Musaale said.
