Newcomers Uganda made the West Indies work harder than expected as the tournament co-hosts posted a challenging 173 for five batting first in a Group C match of the T20 World Cup at the Guyana National Stadium on Saturday.

Opener Johnson Charles led the effort with a top score of 44 off 42 balls, including four fours and two sixes. Despite the power-hitting reputation of the West Indies' middle order, none of the batsmen were able to cut loose against Uganda's disciplined bowling attack.

Captain Brian Masaba claimed the crucial wickets of Nicholas Pooran and opposite number Rovman Powell with his wrist-spinners, while seamers Cosmas Kyewuta and Juma Miyagi impressed with their pace and accuracy. Andre Russell provided a late surge with an unbeaten 30 off 17 balls, hitting six fours.

The West Indies appeared set for a strong finish with Charles and Pooran at the crease halfway through the innings. However, a two-paced pitch and Uganda's disciplined bowling efforts stymied their progress. Despite this, the final total of 173 for five still seems challenging for Uganda, a team celebrating their historic tournament debut victory over Papua New Guinea at the same venue earlier in the week.