Victoria Pearls Schedule at African Games:
•March 7: Kenya
•March 8: Zimbabwe
•March 10: Rwanda
•March 11: Semifinals
•March 13: Finals
The Victoria Pearls are set to make history as they embark on their journey to Accra, Ghana, with one goal in mind: clinching the gold medal at the African Games.
Cricket enthusiasts are abuzz as this marks the first time cricket will be featured at the prestigious African Games, with the women’s edition scheduled to take place from March 7th to 13th.
The tournament will see eight teams divided into two groups, with Uganda placed in Group B alongside formidable opponents Zimbabwe, Rwanda, and Kenya. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals, paving the way for a thrilling showdown to determine the ultimate champion.
Adding to the stakes, the tournament will have T20i status, offering valuable ranking points for participating teams. With Uganda currently ranked 18th in the world, they are poised to capitalize on this opportunity to climb the rankings ladder, facing off against higher-ranked opponents such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
Preparation has been rigorous for the Victoria Pearls, who recently completed a 12-day training camp in India. During their stint, they engaged in five intense T20 matches against select sides from India and Zimbabwe, securing victories in three of the encounters, including a notable win against Zimbabwe.
Leading the charge for the Victoria Pearls will be seasoned campaigner Consy Aweko, who will don the captain’s armband, with Janet Mbabazi serving as her deputy.
The squad boasts a blend of experience and youth, with promising talents such as Immaculate Nandera, Lorna Anyait, and Malisa Ariokot earning their spots in the African Games squad.
The coaching duo of Lawrence Ssematimba and Deus Muhumuza will be at the helm, providing strategic guidance and support to the team as they embark on their quest for gold.
The squad of 15 players has their opening match against arch-rivals Kenya slated to kick off their campaign. Subsequent clashes against Zimbabwe and Rwanda will test the team’s mettle as they strive to make their mark on the grand stage.
Assistant Coach Deus Muhumuza expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, emphasizing their commitment and preparation in the lead-up to the African Games. With determination and passion fueling their drive, the Victoria Pearls are poised to showcase their best performances, embodying the spirit of teamwork and resilience as they vie for glory on the African continent.
The Team:
- Consy Aweko (Captain)
- Janet Mbabazi
- Kevin Awino
- Immaculate Nakisuyi
- Rita Musamali
- Stephanie Nampiina
- Evelyn Anyipo
- Sarah Akiteng
- Marisa Ariokot
- Lorna Anyait
- Phiona Khulume
- Gloria Obukor
- Sarah Walaza
- Esther Iloku
- Immaculate Nandera
Officials: Lawrence Ssematimba (Head Coach), Deusdedit Muhumuza (Assistant Coach), Imam Tugume (Physiotherapist), Richard Okia (Team Analyst), Mary Nankinga (Team Manager).
