The Uganda Cricket Association (UCA) and Uganda National Council of Sports (NCS) have flagged off a 14-member Victoria Pearls squad to Windhoek, Namibia, to participate in the 2025 ICC Women’s T20 Africa Nations Championship.
The tournament, which doubles as a World Cup Qualifier, is scheduled to take place from August 31st to September 6th.
Captain Janet Mbabazi expressed the team’s confidence and preparation for the tournament, saying, “I think we are in a good place.
The team has been working hard since the year began, using every game and training opportunity to improve.
I believe we are all pumped up and ready to do our best.”
The Victoria Pearls, ranked 17th in the world, will face stiff competition from Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania in Group B.
The top two nations from the tournament will advance to the global qualifier, the final gateway to the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales.
The 14-member squad includes two teenagers who have impressed in the Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) championships.
Ariokot Malisa of Olila High School and Irene Mutonyi of St. John’s Secondary School Mukono bring fresh energy and talent to the team.
Uganda’s group stage fixtures include matches against Tanzania on August 31st, Rwanda on September 1st, and Kenya on September 3rd.
The team will need to navigate past tough opponents, including hosts Namibia and regional giants Zimbabwe, to achieve their dream of returning to the world stage.
The team is led by coach Deus Muhumuza and Brian Masaba, who are determined to guide the Victoria Pearls to success in the tournament.
The Victoria Pearls squad includes:
1. Proscovia Alako
2. Immaculate Nakisuuyi
3. Consy Aweko
4. Jane Naume Amongin
5. Stephanie Nampiina
6. Kevin Amuge
7. Esther Iloku
8. Sarah Akiteng
9. Ritah Musamali
10. Malisa Ariokot
11. Kevin Awino
12. Phiona Egaru Kalume
13. Janet Mbabazi (Captain)
14. Irene Mutonyi
