David GOMBE

Cricket Uganda has named Kenyan legend Steve Tikolo because the Cricket Cranes head coach for the subsequent three years.

This marks Tikolo’s third stint on the helm of the Ugandan nationwide staff, a improvement that has despatched ripples of pleasure by the native cricketing neighborhood.

For many who have adopted the Cricket Cranes over the previous decade, Tikolo wants no introduction. Identified affectionately as “Gunnzie” throughout his illustrious enjoying days, he has lengthy been thought to be one of many best cricketers to emerge from the continent.

His earlier tenures in Uganda had been outlined by a rigorous concentrate on self-discipline, tactical improvement, and increasing the staff’s depth. Throughout his time with the Cranes, Tikolo was instrumental in blooding new expertise and instilling an expert tradition that noticed the staff compete with renewed vigor on the worldwide stage.

The timing of this appointment means that the Uganda Cricket Affiliation is in search of stability and a confirmed chief to solidify the progress the staff has made in recent times.

With a three-year mandate, Tikolo has the runway required to implement a long-term imaginative and prescient, concentrate on youth improvement, and refine the tactical method of a squad that has proven it will probably punch above its weight.

“I’m not a stranger in Uganda,” Tikolo as soon as famously remarked throughout his early days within the nation.

That familiarity is prone to be his best asset. He arrives realizing the gamers, the native challenges, and the potential that lies inside the present squad.

Tikolo replaces Uganda Abhay Sharma who resigned from the in October 2025 following a disappointing T20 World Cup Qualifying marketing campaign in Zimbabwe.

Sharma was appointed as Cricket Cranes head coach in April final 12 months and managed the staff on the T20 World Cup within the West Indies.

Sharma had changed South African coach Laurence Mahatlane on the helms and leaves after only one 12 months and half into his three 12 months employment contract.