By Wycliff Kirunda
Ladies’ cricket hasn’t been given much attention in the recent past but it is now literally taking shape, thanks to the Women’s T20 Waterfalls Elite League that was concluded on Sunday.
Three teams (Sipi Trekkers, Itanda Kayakers and Bujjagali Rafters) named after common waterfalls in Uganda, competed in the inaugural league that saw Sipi Trekkers emerging victorious in a low scoring encounter.
The tournament also attracted a number of international players from Kenya and Rwanda who showcased their talents in the games that were relayed live on different channels.
Before the final that was played on Sunday, January, 22, 2023 at Lugogo Cricket Oval, each of the three teams had registered the same number of victories (2) and defeats(2) and teams to progress to the final were based on who had a healthier net run rate.
Despite Bujjagali Rafters being good with the ball on the second last day, they were unable to book a spot in the final as Itanda Kayakers and Sipi Trekkers went toe-to-toe in the final.
There was a unique rule in the competition that allowed atleast (a must) one Under 19 player to feature for the team in any game, it could be one of the things that could bring confidence for these young players to perform at a bigger stage.
The organisers of the competition believe this is one of the many elite leagues that shall take place in Uganda with high hopes of developing women’s cricket and also attracting bigger names to participate and make it an international tournament.
Summary of results
19th January 2023
Itanda Kayers won by 7 wickets against Sipi Trekkers
Sipi Trekkers won by 7 wickets against Bujjagali Rafters
20th January 2023
Itanda Kayakers won by 10 wickets against Bujjagali Rafters
Sipi Trekkers won by 7 wickets against Itanda Kayakers
21st January 2023
Bujjagali Rafters won by 2 runs against Sipi Trekkers
Bujjagali Rafters won by 13 runs against Itanda Kayakers
22nd January 2023
Sipi Trekkers won by 21 runs against Itanda Kayakers (Final)
