Victoria Pearls have began one of their toughest missions yet, an Emerging Nations tournament in Thailand that could reshape Uganda’s place in world cricket.
And leading the charge is experienced spinner Consy Aweko, whose belief in the team grows stronger with every tour despite a few setbacks.
“We have had proper preparations,” Aweko said moments before departure.
“Playing Canada in the Victoria Series and other build-up games helped us gain momentum. We are more determined than ever, and each player brings something unique.”
Her optimism reflects the mood in a squad full of hunger and ambition. Uganda has travelled with a 20-plus contingent, 16 players, two coaches, and officials fully aware they will meet teams ranked above them.
Ranked 18th, Uganda opens against world No.13 Scotland at the Terdthai Cricket Ground. They will then face Thailand, Netherlands, Namibia, UAE, and PNG, teams with deeper experience and longer tournament histories. Only Tanzania sits below Uganda in the standings.
But the trip aims at attaining better rankings. With the ICC set to expand entries for the T20 World Cup by 2030, Uganda sees Thailand as an opportunity to improve as they edge closer to a historic global debut. Strong performances here could shift their trajectory.
The final squad blends experience, firepower, and new energy.
Newcomer Teddy Oyella made her first senior appearance at the Kwibuka tournament, replacing Phiona Kulume, who was part of the team at the Africa Qualifiers in Namibia.
The team was officially flagged off at Lugogo Sports Complex by NCS Deputy General Secretary (Technical) Milton Chebet, joined by Sarah Chelangat, a send off that reaffirmed national belief in the Pearls.
Victoria Pearls Squad
1. Janet Mbabazi (Captain)
2. Esther Iloku
3. Kevin Awino
4. Ritah Musamali
5. Immaculate Nakisuuyi
6. Stephanie Nampiina
7. Proscovia Alako
8. Malisa Ariokot
9. Consy Aweko
10. Sarah Akiteng
11. Kevin Amuge
12. Irene Mutonyi
13. Naume Amongin
14. Teddy Oyella
Reserves: Jimia Mohammad, Phiona Kulume
Tournament Fixtures (EAT)
• Nov 20: Scotland vs Uganda – 9:45am, Terdthai Cricket Ground
• Nov 21: Uganda vs Namibia – 9:45am, Terdthai Cricket Ground
• Nov 23: Uganda vs PNG – 5:30am, Terdthai Cricket Ground
• Nov 25: UAE vs Uganda – 9:45am, Asian Institute of Technology
• Nov 26: Thailand vs Uganda – 9:45am, Asian Institute of Technology
• Nov 28: Uganda vs Tanzania – 9:45am, Asian Institute of Technology
• Nov 30: Netherlands vs Uganda – 9:45am, Terdthai Cricket Ground
