The Victoria Pearls are ready to chase glory once again. After weeks of intense preparation, the team is set to fly out on August 29 for Windhoek, Namibia, where they’ll compete in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers from August 31 to September 6.
Flagged off at the National Council of Sports in Lugogo, the team received official blessings from Assistant General Secretary Milton Chebet, who urged them to represent the nation with pride and determination.
Drawn in Group B, Uganda will battle regional rivals Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania. The top two teams from each group advance to the semi-finals, with the finalists earning coveted spots in the Global Qualifier — the final step toward the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales.
Head Coach Deus Muhumuza expressed confidence in the squad’s balance and readiness;
“We’ve focused on cohesion, game awareness, and sharpening individual strengths. Players like Malisa Ariokot and Irene Mutonyi are now fully available, while debutant Naume Jane Amongin has earned her place with consistent all-round performances. This squad blends youth, skill, and experience — and we’re going game by game with one clear goal: qualification.”
Captain Janet Mbabazi echoed her coach’s optimism and highlighted the team’s unity:
“We’ve trained hard all year and grown together. I’m particularly excited to welcome Naume. She’s worked incredibly hard and brings strength to our bowling attack. We’re ready.”
The Pearls are aiming to return to the Global Qualifiers, a stage they last reached in 2023 when they hosted and advanced alongside Zimbabwe. Although that campaign ended early in Abu Dhabi, the team has since restructured under a new coaching setup and is eager to bounce back stronger.
Uganda’s Fixtures (Group B)
- Aug 31: vs Tanzania
- Sept 1: vs Rwanda
- Sept 3: vs Kenya
Squad: Proscovia Alako, Immaculate Nakisuuyi, Consy Aweko, Naume Amongin, Stephanie Nampiina, Kevin Amuge, Esther Iloku, Sarah Akiteng, Ritah Musamali, Malisa Ariokot, Kevin Awino, Phiona Egaru, Irene Mutonyi, Janet Mbabazi (Captain).
