TANZANIA's U-19 cricketers will seek to boost their search for progression to the ICC U-19 Men's Cricket World Cup Africa Qualifier Division 1, as they take on Mozambique in the Qualifier Division 2 clash in Dar es Salaam tomorrow.

The tournament hosts had opened their campaign in the qualifiers grandly, commanding a comprehensive six-wicket defeat of Nigeria at the Dar es Salaam Gymkhana Club (DGC) venue last Friday. 

In tomorrow's fixture, Tanzania would be banking on dependable cricketers including skipper Laksh Bakrania, Augustine Mwamele, Hamza Ally, Ally Hafidh, and Karim Kiseto, who had a stellar showing in the opening tie, to dispatch Mozambique. 

Bakrania, for instance, showcased a stellar bowling performance in Tanzania's tie versus Nigeria - in which the youthful cricketer ended with a three-wicket haul for 19 runs in 10 overs, showcasing true leadership on the pitch. 

The cricketer's scintillating display with the ball had him deservedly walking away with the Player of the Match prize. 

Kiseto excelled with the bat against Nigeria, given the performer surpassed the half-century mark to blast 57 runs, which included seven boundaries, to give his team an edge over the opponents. 

Mozambique had a stuttering start to their campaign, conceding a four-wicket defeat to Ghana at the University of Dar es Salaam venue on the same day.  

The Mozambicans would be relying on, among others, opener Filipe Nelson and team captain Antonio Laice, to notch their first victory and keep alive hopes of securing a spot in the ICC U-19 Men's Cricket World Cup Africa Qualifier Division 1. 

The duo was the cricketers boasting an encouraging game with the bat in the clash versus Ghana, as Nelson scored 13 runs and Laice made his way back with 17 runs. 

In tomorrow's other clash, long-time rivals, Ghana and Nigeria would take on each other, seeking to establish themselves as serious contenders. 

Today's ties will have Malawi confront Sierra Leone, whereas Rwanda would be eager to bounce back when taking on Botswana. 

The ICC U-19 Men's Cricket World Cup Africa Qualifier Division 2's participating squads are Botswana, Ghana, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and hosts Tanzania. 

The tournament is held at the DGC and University of Dar es Salaam grounds, featuring promising young cricketers from the mentioned eight countries. 

Tanzania Cricket Association (TCA) Chairman Balakrishna Sreekumar stated during the opening ceremony: "I am excited and honored as we gear up to host the ICC U-19 Boys Qualifier, Africa from July 31 to August 11, 2024." 

The TCA boss pointed out: "I am immensely thankful to ICC for considering Tanzania worthy of conducting this tournament and assure all stakeholders that we will do everything possible to make ICC and cricket lovers proud worldwide. 

"On behalf of everyone at TCA, I welcome the (other) seven participating countries, ICC officials, umpires, scorers, and guests to our beautiful city, Dar es Salaam, which means 'haven of peace'. 

"Cricket in Tanzania is becoming a household name, and we are dedicated to nurturing budding talents across the country. 

He added: "We are grateful to the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Sports, especially to the Honorable Minister, Damas Ndumbaro, for his excellent professionalism and support. 

"Our energetic team at TCA cannot wait to host this event, and we promise a spectacular experience. Welcome to all participating nations.” 

Ndumbaro said: "Dear athletes and support staff from participating countries, ICC officials, TCA officials, and my fellow Tanzanians, I am honoured as we eagerly await the ICC U-19 Men's World Cup Qualifier Africa Division 2 starting from July 31, 2024, in Tanzania." 

Ndumbaro remarked: "I warmly welcome players and officials from Nigeria, Mozambique, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Rwanda, Botswana, and Malawi. 

"A special thanks to the International Cricket Council for choosing Tanzania as the host. Our government, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, values sports as integral to national growth.” 

The minister, moreover, revealed: "The TCA, under Balakrishna Sreekumar's leadership, has significantly advanced cricket in Tanzania. We will ensure a successful and memorable tournament for everyone. I wish every participant the best. Ahsanteni sana!"