Uganda Cricket Association (UCA) has taken a significant step forward in supporting the development of women’s cricket in the country.
In a press release issued today, the UCA announced that 12 members of the Victoria Pearls, the national women’s team, have been awarded contracts that will guarantee them not only monthly pay but medical care as well.
This is the first time that the women’s team has been awarded contracts, which will be reviewed every four months.
The UCA hopes that this move will motivate the players to achieve greater success on the field, especially as they prepare for the T20 World Cup Qualifiers in South Africa later this year.
The contracted players have been divided into two groups, A and B, based on their performances last year.
Category A includes Consy Aweko, Kevin Awino, Janet Mbabazi, Evelyn Anyipo, Immaculate Nakisuyi, Rita Musamali, and Sarah Akiteng.
Category B includes Stephanie Nampiina, Irene Alumo, Phiona Khulume, Patricia Malemikia, and Gloria Obukor.
The list of players receiving contracts will change annually, providing opportunities for new players to receive contracts in the future.
According to Denis Musaali, the Public Relations Officer of the Uganda Cricket Association, the contracts will have a big impact on the development of women’s cricket in Uganda. “This will allow the girls to commit more time to the game given other competing needs,” He said.
The Uganda Cricket Association is also undertaking other initiatives to promote women’s cricket in the country.
Last year [2022], the girls had a lot of international engagements to try and help them improve their world ranking and that is the same plan this year, according to the Public Relations Officer.
The Victoria Pearls are gearing up for a busy year ahead, with a number of series scheduled for 2023. These include the Victoria Series at home, the annual Kwibuka in Rwanda, and the T20 World Cup Qualifiers in South Africa.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the UCA’s Public Relations Officer had a message for young girls and women who aspire to become professional cricket players in Uganda. “I would like to encourage all young girls to take up cricket because it’s a sport that teaches you a lot of things that will help you outside life,” he said.
The UCA is calling on fans and supporters of women’s cricket in Uganda to get behind the team and show their support. The home series is scheduled for next month, and fans are encouraged to show up in Lugogo and cheer on the Victoria Pearls.
With these new contracts, the UCA is making a significant investment in the future of women’s cricket in Uganda.
By providing financial and medical support, the association hopes to encourage more young girls to take up the sport and help the team achieve even greater success in the future.
