In a crucial match up against Scotland Monday in Johannesburg, Uganda won the toss and interestingly elected to field, heeding previous form where dew has kept things bouncy and tricky for the first hour.

It was a very daring call as Scotland had scored 274 batting first just two days ago on the same grounds.

Paceman Asadu Sseyiga replaced Charles Waiswa in the only change and he and Kenneth Kamyuka caused problems from the start as the decision to bowl looked a good one.

Everybody, including the previously unused Olweny, put in an enormous effort. Kamyuka and Ssemanda could be particularly singled out for praise as they kept things tight and both took two wickets as the Scottish side could not make any serious headway, wickets falling regularly.

Ssemanda even had a hat-trick opportunity at one point and with Majid Haq in to face the pressure ball found himself thumped him on the pads for a good lbw shout. Haq then set out on a suicidal run and was easily run-out for the third wicket in Ssemanda's over.

Only Scotland's big hitter McCallum posed any long lasting threat managing to post his third century of the tournament which took his team to 209, and himself to the top of the batting standings.

It was an excellent bowling and fielding effort from the Ugandan side, and a very bright and hopeful first half to the game.

Scotland had brought on some new faces and a replacement for the injured Kyle Coetzer with Moneeb Iqbal, John Blain and Majeed Haq coming in as specialist bowlers.

Unfortunately, as soon as things were underway in the second half of the match things began to go wayward with the Ugandan batting.

Opener Arthur Kyobe needlessly went for nought, when he really needed a decent score to secure his place.

And then, the curse of the middle order collapse was upon Uganda once again.

Although Roger Mukasa continued his good tournament, and the run rate was respectably high, wickets began to fall, and when he too went for 37, playing on, Uganda were 56/4 and staring trouble in the face.

Of all the batsmen to follow only captain Junior Kwebiha commanded any respect putting on a decent 69, but in the end it was not enough as Uganda were all out 163 in the 44th over, 47 runs short of a seemingly straightforward victory.

This was a match waiting to be won, and Uganda must be very disappointed with their batting display, yet again.

Some serious questions will now be posed of those individuals who have not performed to their capability and questions concerning the line-up for the pivotal final group match Wednesday against Oman will certainly be asked.

Will Uganda remain faithful to those who have taken them to this tournament, or do they make a prudent gamble and bring in some fresh bats? Lawrence Ssematimba and Nehal Bibodi may be options under consideration.

With Namibia's high scoring win on the same day over the Omanis, Uganda's next match against Oman becomes a must win, both for further advancement and morale boosting.

The permutations are interesting. If Uganda wins, and Namibia lose to Ireland, advancement is automatic. But if Namibia also win in that situation, as well they might against a relaxed Ireland, then the Ugandan net run rate will have to be better.

Should Namibia and Uganda both lose then along with Oman they will be tied on points and run-rate will decide who goes through.

The only answer for Uganda, therefore, is to play to win, and win thoroughly. Oman will be looking for a strong win too, and this may provoke a batting collapse on their part. It is to be hoped that Uganda will do their best not to emulate.