An unbeaten century from Man-of-the-Match Josh Cox and four wickets for Matthew Humphreys ensured Ireland Under 19s started their World Cup tournament with a 39-runs win despite a late fightback from Uganda.
The wicket-keeper batsman hit 8 fours and a six in his almost even time knock, making an unbeaten 111 from 113 balls to propel Ireland to 236 for 9.
He reached the landmark in the final over, joining the exalted company of Eoin Morgan (twice), Paul Stirling and Harry Tector as Ireland U19 World Cup centurions.
The South African was the glue that held the Irish together after their innings had got off to a disastrous start, losing fellow countryman Liam Doherty in the first over.
David Vincent (24) scored crucial early runs as he and Jack Dickson (14) got the innings back on track, but with the game in the balance at 95 for 4, Cox shared stands of 59 with Phillipe Le Roux (32) and 47 with Scott Macbeth (22) as Ireland passed 200.
There were a few nerves as the last over began with Cox on 97 not out, but a powerful pull ensured a deserved century.
In the reply, Matthew Humphreys (4-25) snared early wickets, and for much of the chase it looked as if the Boys In Green would be emphatic winners despite the best efforts of Ugandan captain Pascal Murungi, who hit a well-compiled 63.
There was almost a late sting in the tail though as Juma Miyaji's brutal assault on Muzamil Sherzad saw him hit three consecutive sixes on his way to 38 from 21 balls, to reduce the equation to 41 required from 21 balls, and there were a few nerves in the Irish camp.
However Muzamil (2-46) got his revenge, and also claimed the final wicket to seal the win. The other Irish wicket takers were Nathan McGuire (2-29) and Liam Doherty (1-45).
Next up for Pete Johnston's side are televised clashed against tournament favourites India on Wednesday, and South Africa on Friday.