The Victoria Pearls have breathed new life into their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier campaign, registering a resounding eight-wicket victory over Rwanda.
The win has injected fresh uncertainty into the Group B semifinals, with all teams still in contention.
Rwanda’s batting unit made a promising start, with Gisele Ishimwe and Henriette Ishimwe forging a solid partnership.
Gisele’s 41 off 33 balls was a highlight, but Uganda’s skipper Janet Mbabazi’s crucial wicket-taking spell changed the game’s trajectory.
Mbabazi’s dismissal of Gisele sparked a dramatic collapse, which was further exacerbated by Irene Mutoni’s economical 19th over.
Mutoni’s over yielded just one run and two wickets, precipitating Rwanda’s downfall.
They were eventually bowled out for 114 in 19.5 overs.
In response, Uganda faced a nervous start, losing two early wickets to slip to 27/2.
However, a loose 13th over from Rwanda proved costly, allowing Rita Musamali and Immaculate Nakisuyi to capitalize on the momentum shift.
The pair guided Uganda to a comfortable victory, sealing the win with 17 balls to spare.
Nakisuyi’s impressive 43 not out took her to a career milestone of 50 T20I wickets, earning her Player of the Match honors.
With one game remaining, the Group B semifinals slots are poised on a knife’s edge.
Tanzania currently tops the group, but Uganda and Rwanda remain in the contention.
The final matches will be crucial in determining the semifinal spots, with net run rate likely to be a deciding factor.
Uganda will face Kenya, while Rwanda takes on Tanzania in the last group matches.
