Uganda: UCA Turn Down Adelaide-Based Star

Innocent Ndawula

18 March 2011

Patrick Ochan’s request to be included in Uganda’s cricket team for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Division II World Cricket League (WCL) due April 8-15 in Dubai has fallen through.

The 22-year-old last week wrote an email to Uganda Cricket Association (UCA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Justine Ligyalingi saying he deserved a place on the team. He presented details of his performances and records at his West Torrens Cricket Club in Adelaide, Australia.

But Ligyalingi, who confirmed receiving the all-rounder’s documents, said Ocha’s request had come in a little too late.

“I tabled his (Ochan) case with the coaches (Martin Suji and Conrad Shukri) and the selectors and both admitted they couldn’t select him without seeing him in action,” said Ligyalingi. Adding, “It was also going to be hard for us to add him to the team because he wasn’t on our provisional squad of 18 that we sent to ICC. If we had known in time, we would have definitely invited him for trials and our boot camp in South Africa. But calling him for the April showpiece is too abrupt.”

“We are aware of his talent and what he can do. We shall definitely consider him in future,” added Ligyalingi, who has also been appointed team manager for the Dubai- bound squad.

Ochan expressed dismay after being snubbed but vowed to keep working on his game.

“I have been working hard and our season ends in early April. My club would have let me go because we are not in the running for the title this season. But I will keep working and wait for any future calls,” said the player.

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