Uganda’s national netball team, the She Cranes, began their 2026 Commonwealth Games campaign on a high with a convincing 59-50 victory over Wales at the Hydro Arena in Glasgow, Scotland.
In a surprise tactical decision, head coach Rashid Mubiru left regular goal shooter Mary Cholhok and centre Margaret Bagala out of the starting line up. Their roles were taken by debutant Alice Isoto, while fellow debutant Joan Ryekoboth started at centre.
World number six ranked Uganda made a bright start, edging the opening quarter 15-13. However, seventh placed Wales fought back to take a 31-28 lead at halftime.
The turning point came after a series of tactical adjustments, including the introduction of Mary Nuba and Margaret Bagala at the start of the second quarter. Uganda regained control of the match, taking a 45-39 advantage into the fourth quarter before pulling away to secure an impressive 59-50 opening victory.
“I think the defensive combination of Gloria Ayaa and Shaffie Nalwanja won us the game,” said head coach Rashid Mubiru.
The She Cranes return to action on Sunday, when they face Trinidad and Tobago in their second Group B fixture.
Starting Line-up: Alice Isoto – Goal Shooter (GS), Shadiah Nassanga – Goal Attacker (GA), Joan Ryekoboth – Centre (C), Rachel Nanyonga – Wing Attack (WA), Nasimu Mutesi – Wing Defence (WD), Gloria Ayaa – Goal Defence (GD), Shaffie Nalwanja – Goal Keeper (GK),
Group B Teams: New Zealand, Jamaica, Wales, Uganda, Scotland, Trinidad and Tobago
