Victoria Pearls survived a tense finish to edge Namibia by just one run in a rain-shortened game at the Women’s Day T20I Series. The victory, which saw them defend a total of 71, keeps them at the top of the table as the tournament heads into the second round.
Batting first in a 16-over contest, Uganda struggled to get going. Immaculate Nakisuyi was run out early, marking her second consecutive game without scoring. Janet Mbabazi (19) and Esther Ilukor (21) gave the innings some stability, while Rita Musamali (16) and Malisa Ariokot (7) chipped in late to push Uganda to 71/6.
Namibia’s chase started poorly with captain Sune Whitman falling early. The slow bowling trio of Mbabazi, Consy Aweko, and Nakisuyi tightened the screws, conceding just 30 runs in nine overs. The pressure led to Namibia’s collapse, with Sarah Akiteng delivering the knockout punch. Her stunning spell of 5/14 dismantled Namibia’s batting lineup, leaving them stranded at 70/9.
In the afternoon game, Hong Kong China edged Nepal by two runs in another last-over thriller, securing their second win of the series. Uganda now prepares to face Hong Kong China in their next match, while Namibia will be desperate to bounce back against Nepal.
