Uganda’s national women’s cricket team, the Victoria Pearls, have been officially flagged off to Windhoek, Namibia, to compete in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers. The team’s flag-off ceremony was held at the National Council of Sports in Lugogo, where Assistant General Secretary Milton Chebet wished the team well.
Speaking about the upcoming challenge, Head Coach Deus Muhumuza expressed confidence in the team, emphasizing their unity. “We have been in camp for four days, which has helped us create a bond with the team members. We are going to Namibia as a unit, majorly targeting to qualify for the World Cup, but we are going to go game after game,” he stated.
The tournament, which runs from August 31 to September 6, will see Uganda compete in Group B against rivals Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania. The top two teams from this group will advance to the Global Qualifiers, scheduled for January 12 to February 2, 2026, in Nepal.
The Victoria Pearls are determined to make their return to the Global Qualifiers, a stage they last reached in 2023 in Abu Dhabi.
The squad is a blend of experience and new talent. Seasoned players like vice-captain Rita Musamali and the in-form Irene Mutonyi will provide leadership alongside debutant Naume Jane Amongin. The team will also benefit from the player-coach expertise of Consy Aweko, who will offer support to captain Janet Mbabazi.
Uganda’s first match is against Tanzania on Sunday, August 31. They will then play Rwanda on Monday, September 1, and conclude their group stage matches against Kenya on Wednesday, September 3.
Uganda Victoria Pearls Squad:
- Players: Proscovia Alako, Immaculate Nakisuuyi, Consey Aweko, Naume Amongin, Stephanie Nampiina, Kavin Amuge, Easter Iloku, Sarah Akiteng, Ritah Musamali, Melissa Ariokot, Kevin Awino, Phiona Egaru, Irene Mutonyi, and Janet Mbabazi.
- Officials: Deus Muhamuza (Head Coach), Brian Masaba, Shakirah Sadik, Consy Aweko (Assistant Coaches), and Lillian Ondeko Namaganda (Team Manager).
