As the countdown to the 2025 Vitality Netball Nations Cup begins, the She Cranes, Uganda’s national netball team, have unveiled their final 13-player squad.
Set to compete in the prestigious tournament from February 1 to 9 in England, the squad represents a balanced blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talent, ready to make their mark on the international stage.
Under the leadership of head coach Rashid Mubiru and assistant coach Ruth Meeme, the team has undergone extensive preparations, refining their tactics and strengthening their game ahead of the competition.
The squad, which features four shooters, four mid-court players, and five defenders, is confident in its ability to challenge the world’s best netball teams, including South Africa, England, and Malawi.
Final Squad Breakdown
Shooters
Christine Namulumba Kango
Recheal Nanyonga
Mary Nuba
Irene Eyaru
Mid-Court Players
Margaret Bagala
Joan Ryekoboth
Hindu Namutebi
Amiya Penelope
Defenders
Mutesi Nassim
Gloria Aya
Sandra Nambirige
Hanisha Muhammed
Privas Kayeny
The She Cranes’ final squad is a dynamic mix of skill and versatility, with shooters like Christine Namulumba Kango and Recheal Nanyonga leading the charge in attack, while defenders such as Mutesi Nassim and Gloria Aya provide a rock-solid defensive wall.
The mid-court players, including the experienced Margaret Bagala and agile Amiya Penelope, will play a pivotal role in linking attack and defence seamlessly.
The technical team has worked diligently to sharpen key areas of the game. The players have been focusing on perfecting their centre passes, improving goal-line conversions, and enhancing defensive strategies in preparation for the fierce competition.
This fine-tuning has instilled confidence within the squad, who are eager to showcase their hard work and unity on the court.
Notable Absences
While the team has made some difficult decisions, six players who were part of the extended squad have narrowly missed out on selection.
These include Filedaus Namulema, Sylvia Nanyonga, Lilian Achola, Betty Namukaaya, Akello Malisera, and Deborah Nakijoba.
Despite not making the final cut, their dedication and commitment to the team will remain crucial to the overall success of the She Cranes.
A Challenging Road Ahead
The She Cranes’ campaign will kick off on February 1, 2025, with a highly anticipated clash against South Africa.
The team’s strong work ethic and determination to succeed are evident, and they are fully prepared to face the challenges ahead.
Aside from South Africa, Uganda will face tough competition from hosts England, a team they have had a longstanding rivalry with, and Malawi, known for their dynamic and fast-paced style of play.
With the squad now finalised, the She Cranes will continue their intensive training until Monday before departing for England on Wednesday.
As the team heads into the tournament with high hopes, they are fully aware of the hard work and commitment required to perform at the highest level.
However, the She Cranes are ready to bring their A-game, fuelled by the desire to make Uganda proud on the international stage.
The 2025 Vitality Netball Nations Cup is going to be the She Cranes first challenge of the Year 2025.
This tournament represents an exciting opportunity for the team to showcase their skill, determination, and teamwork in front of a global audience.
With a young and talented squad, Uganda’s netball future is looking bright, and the She Cranes are eager to establish themselves as one of the world’s top netball teams.
The nation’s hopes rest on their shoulders, and with a squad full of promise, there is every reason to believe that the She Cranes will rise to the occasion and make their mark at the tournament.
