The Victoria Pearls quest for a fourth Kwibuka title started with a commanding 71 runs victory against Botswana.
The Uganda female cricket national team won the toss and elected to bat first with Asumin Akurut who was handed her senior debut for the team.
Captain Janet Mbabazi and Immaculate Nakisuyi opened the batting for Uganda and put on an opening stand of 40 runs before the latter fell for a well-stroked 18.
Botswana rocked the Uganda boat momentarily but the 60-run partnership between Proscovia Alako (30) and Stephanie Nampiina (47) put Uganda ahead of a slow start.
A rear guard performance helped the Pearls finish on 140/6 in their 20 overs. In the run chase, Botswana lacked intent in their batting playing a lot of dead bat staying behind the required rate for most of the chase.
The Pearls didn’t even need to engage second gear as they went through a procession giving bowling opportunities to the unit as they prepare for tougher battles ahead.
Mbabazi was outstanding with the ball as well as former captain Consy Aweko and Sarah Walaza. Debutant Akurut got a chance to run in and bowl a few overs as well as Malisa Ariokot and Lorna Anyait, the youngsters being prepared for the future.
At the end of action, it was a routine victory for Uganda who will be taking on Nigeria in a grudge match tomorrow morning.
Courtesy Photos
