Rita Musamali produced some impressive figures as the Victoria Pearls beat Tanzania by 10 runs to qualify for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifiers.
The all rounder was first a part of a partnership that dug Uganda out of the ditch they had trapped themselves in then went ahead to help her side in their defence.
Together with Stephanie Nampiina, Musamali dictated terms in Uganda’s innings.
The Pearls endured a terrible start, with their top order of Kevin Awino, Proscovia Alako and Janet Mbabazi getting dismissed inside powerplay, but the two ensured the team sets a defendable score.
Musamali was a 35 not out while Nampiina scored the second half century of the tournament-51.
The pair was backed up by the bowlers who despite Tanzanian’s great start made sure to defend the score.
Teenager Lorna Anyait got the first wicket for Uganda when she clean bowled former Tanzanian captain Fatuma Kibasu in the seventh Over.
Anyait was then involved in the second wicket. She caught Monica Iddi who was facing Mbabazi.
Mbabazi found two more in the 16th Over, before Musamali cleaning the tail end on her way to recording three wickets. Musamali also combined with Awino to run out Tanzanian skipper Neema Pius.
Consy Aweko ensured the win is sealed with four balls to spare when she clean bowled Mwanamvua Ushanga.
The win sends Uganda to the regional final that will be played on Sunday against Zimbabwe, but most importantly, Uganda qualify for the global qualifiers that will be held in Dubai next year.
Uganda and Zimbabwe will be the representatives from this region.
Courtesy Photos
