Victoria Pearls have named a 14-player squad to face Canada in a five-match T20 International series, with captain Janet Mbabazi leading the side as they prepare for next month’s Emerging Cup in Thailand.
The series, starting Monday, October 20, will mark Canada’s first-ever tour of Uganda.
The visitors are expected to provide a solid test for the Pearls, who are fine-tuning their lineup ahead of the global tournament featuring the world’s top associate nations.
The major talking points from the squad announcement include the call-ups of Sarah Tino, Teddy Oyella, and Jimia Mohammed, while Phiona Khulume misses out.
Rising youngsters Irene Mutonyi and Malisa Ariokot are also absent as they focus on their final school exams.
For Tino, Oyella, and Jimia, the series is a chance to stake their claim for permanent places in the national team.
Jimia, a former Baby Victoria Pearls captain, has earned her promotion through consistent performances at junior level.
Tino, who impressed on her senior debut at this year’s Kwibuka Tournament, continues her rapid rise.
Oyella, who was also part of the Kwibuka squad, gets another shot at cementing her spot after years on the fringes.
Khulume’s exclusion, however, comes as a surprise.
The all-rounder, who missed the recent T20 World Cup Global Qualifiers in Namibia, has been replaced by Naume Jane Amongin, who retains her place despite a tough debut against Tanzania.
Sarah Akiteng also keeps her spot, with her left-arm spin adding variety to the bowling attack.
The core of the team remains unchanged, featuring Mbabazi, Immaculate Nakisuyi, Rita Musamali, Stephanie Nampiina, Consy Aweko and Kevin Awino all expected to play key roles once again.
Head coach and selectors are expected to use the Canada series to test new combinations and gauge readiness for the Thailand campaign.
Canada is set to arrive in Kampala on Saturday, October 18, before the opening match at Lugogo Cricket Oval two days later.
Full squad
Janet Mbabazi (C), Kevin Awino, Consy Aweko, Immaculate Nakisuyi, Rita Musamali, Stephanie Nampiina, Sarah Akiteng, Teddy Oyella, Sarah Tino, Esther Iloku, Kevin Amuge, Naume Amongin, Jimia Mohammed, Proscovia Alako.
