The Victoria Pearls progressed to the semifinals of the African Games following their 30-run win against neighbors Rwanda in their final Groups B game on Sunday.
The Pearls had mostly all-rounder Immaculate Nakisuyi to thank for the unlaboured victory. Nakisuyi starred with both the bat and the ball as she guided her side to the much needed victory.
The 28-year-old hit an unbeaten 57 off 56. She notched eight boundaries that inspired Uganda to a total of 106/2 before bossing the Rwandan innings.
Team captain Consy Aweko got Uganda’s first two wickets, but Nakisuyi who was introduced into the attack in the 13th Over stole the show.
The all-rounder bagged four wickets, with a couple coming in her second Over. Rwanda captain Diane Marie Bimenyimana, top scorer of her team with 28, was one of Nakisuyi’s victims.
Nakisuyi’s display was unmatched, but a couple of her teammates were handy with the ball as well. The skipper ended with a total of three wickets while Lorna Anyait despite not recording a dismissal registered the lowest economy (2.00). The spinning teenager conceded just 8 runs off her four Overs.
Nakisuyi also had support in Uganda’s innings. Gloria Obukor (21), her opening partner and Stephanie Nampiina (15) came in handy with the bat.
The win meant Uganda finished second in Group B. They will now face South Africa who topped Group A in the semifinals on Monday as their hopes of a medal continue. Zimbabwe, winners of Group B will face Nigeria in the other semifinal.
Courtesy Photos
