The Baby Victoria Pearls were made to work for their victories on Sunday as they picked up two narrow wins against Rwanda U19 Women in the High Performance Women’s Series 2026 at the Entebbe Cricket Ground.
After winning their earlier matches comfortably, Uganda faced a much tougher test against a spirited Rwandan side that kept the games alive until the final moments. The Baby Victoria Pearls held their nerve to win the opening match by five runs before completing a three-wicket victory in the second game.
In the first match, Uganda won the toss and chose to bat, posting 109/6 in their 20 overs. Captain Shadia Giringish Nabulime led from the front with 26 runs off 35 balls, while Mary Namiiro added 19 runs off 26 deliveries. Joan Ilora’s quick 12 off 8 balls and Mercy Kongai’s 11 off 9 balls helped Uganda set a competitive total.
Rwanda’s chase was built around opener Fanny Utagushimaninde, who played a lone hand with a well-made 59 off 60 balls. Despite her efforts, Uganda’s bowlers kept applying pressure. Devine Gabriella Nyamer picked up two wickets for nine runs, while Hasfa Naula also took two wickets as Rwanda finished on 104/6, falling five runs short.
The second game saw Rwanda bat first after winning the toss, but Uganda’s bowlers kept control throughout the innings. Mischelle Ariago was the standout performer with figures of 3/16, supported by Asha Mukite and Sheila Namagoba, who claimed two wickets each, as Rwanda were bowled out for 85 in 18.4 overs.
Uganda’s chase got off to a difficult start after losing early wickets, but Sarah Tino and Rashida Tikabula steadied the innings with a crucial 36-run partnership. Tikabula scored 21 before falling, while Tino stayed until the end with an unbeaten 22 to guide Uganda to 86/7 in 19.3 overs.
Reflecting on the matches, captain Shadia Giringish Nabulime admitted the team had areas to improve, especially in the field, but was pleased with the way the players responded under pressure.
Head coach Ivan Kakande also welcomed the challenge, saying such matches give the players valuable experience in handling pressure situations. He added that the team will continue rotating players during the series to give everyone an opportunity to gain confidence and contribute.
