David GOMBE
The Victoria Pearls go to Accra Ghana chasing Gold at the African Games. Cricket will be featuring at the African Games for the first time with the women’s edition running from March 7th – 13th.
Eight teams put into two groups will be chasing Gold at the games. Uganda is in Group B alongside Zimbabwe, Rwanda and Kenya. The top two sides qualify for the semifinals, the sides that meet in the final will battle for gold while the 3rd/4th final will determine winner of the bronze medal.
The tournament will have T20i status therefore ranking points will be available for the teams at the games. Uganda is ranked 18th in the world and will chasing points against sides ranked above them such as South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
The Victoria Pearls have completed a 12 day training in India in preparation for the games, they played five T20 games against select sides in India and Zimbabwe. The team was able to win three out of the five games they played managing a win against Zimbabwe.
Consy Aweko will lead the side with Janet Mbabazi as her deputy, youngsters Immaculate Nandera, Lorna Anyait and Malisa Ariokot keep their places in the African Games squad. Lawrence Ssematimba and Deus Muhumuza will lead the side as head coach and assistant coach respectively.
The squad of 15 players will fly out on Monday early for the games and will start their quest for gold against old rival Kenya, followed by Zimbabwe and finish their group assignment against Rwanda.
“I am proud to witness the commitment and preparation the team has put into gearing up for the African Games in Ghana. We are ready to face the challenge head-on, fueled by our collective determination and passion for the game. Together, we’ll strive to showcase our best performances, embodying the spirit of teamwork and resilience – Deus Muhumuza Assistant Coach Victoria Pearls”
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).
