Uganda Cricket has turned to experience and regional pedigree by appointing Steve Tikolo as the new head coach of the senior men’s national team, the Uganda national cricket team. The seasoned Kenyan cricket legend was officially unveiled by Evelyn Kabongerwa Shinyekwa, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the team as it seeks to strengthen its presence on the international stage.
Tikolo emerged from a competitive pool of more than 75 applicants, underlining the confidence Uganda Cricket has placed in his leadership and familiarity with the local game. The appointment is also a homecoming of sorts; the former Kenya national cricket team captain previously coached Uganda between 2012–2013 and again from 2016–2019, building a strong connection with the players and the East African cricket ecosystem.
Speaking after his unveiling, Tikolo expressed excitement about returning to a setup he knows well. He described the move as a meaningful return to East African cricket, noting that guiding Uganda again felt like “coming back home.” His deep understanding of regional cricket dynamics is expected to play a key role as the Cricket Cranes pursue greater competitiveness internationally.
The three-year contract comes with an ambitious target: steering Uganda toward the ICC Cricket World Cup. Tikolo acknowledged that qualifying for the global showpiece remains personal unfinished business from his illustrious playing career, emphasizing his determination to help Uganda reach the sport’s biggest stage.
Widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest cricketers, Tikolo brings immense experience, having played in five World Cups, captained Kenya, and coached national sides including Tanzania national cricket team and Nigeria national cricket team. Across 135 One Day Internationals he scored 3,428 runs and claimed 94 wickets. With the Cricket Cranes set to depart for Namibia on Monday, Tikolo is eager to begin work and chart a new path for Uganda’s cricket ambitions.
