As it is the norm lately in the Uganda cricket fraternity, hundreds are set to gather in Lugogo on Saturday to honour a legend and one of their own – John Ezera Nsubuga.
The luganda saying “Basima ogenze” is certainly one statement you’re less likely to hear from these corridors as the fraternity has embraced the act of commemorating it’s finest!
From Abram Kit Lutaya, John Nagenda (now both deceased) to Sam Walusimbi, Sam Sewagudde and William Kamanyi, cricket has honoured its legends in their own midst.
Nsubuga will now join a growing list of those who have witnessed their own commemoration. Born in 1945 in Kampala, Nsubuga went to Kings College Budo where as the school’s head-prefect, horned his cricketing skills.
Nsubuga played for the school’s team before joining Africa Cricket Club (the oldest cricket club in Uganda), a club he helped found.
He was a mainstay for the national team in the 1970s and 80s, and while serving as the warden of Mitchell Hall at Makerere University, Nsubuga was pivotal in encouraging young cricketers to keep playing the gentleman’s game.
A wicket-keeper batsman in his playing days, the 78-year-old was regarded by his peers as ‘lightening quick’ due to his agility.
Lugogo will in his honour witness cricket loyalty otherwise known as ‘Abagurusi’ take to the field for a 20-Over game on Saturday. Nostalgic it promises to be, the now retired human resource specialist will also be presented with a recognition award.
“Dad was pleasantly surprised by the initiative to honour him and it has brought a spark and good memories to his life. The Nsubuga family is grateful to our cricketing friends for celebrating his contribution during his lifetime,” Dunstan Kamunvi Nsubuga on behalf of the Nsubuga family expressed their delight.
