Kigali, Rwanda – 4 June 2025 | Uganda’s senior women’s national cricket team, the Victoria Pearls, have kicked off their title defence at the 2025 Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament in dominant fashion, registering a commanding 10-wicket victory over Cameroon at the Gahanga B Oval in Kigali.
The tone was set early after Uganda won the toss and chose to bowl — a tactical move that leveraged the pitch’s early moisture. The decision proved decisive, as Cameroon crumbled under relentless pressure, managing only 42 runs in 19.4 overs. Only Noan Adrienne Nogono managed to hit double digits with a score of 10, as Uganda’s bowling attack showed no mercy.
Veteran spinner Stephanie Nampiina was the star of the show, claiming an astonishing 3 wickets for just 3 runs in 3.4 overs, including two maidens — an effort that rightfully earned her the Player of the Match award. Newcomers Kevin Amuge and Sarah Tino, both on debut, showed promise with disciplined spells, while Sarah Walaza and Patricia Akiteng chipped in with two wickets apiece.
Uganda’s response with the bat was nothing short of clinical. Openers Janet Mbabazi (26*) and Esther Iloku (11*) made quick work of the modest target, sealing the win in just 4.5 overs — before the powerplay ended — to complete an emphatic victory.
With confidence high and early momentum on their side, the Victoria Pearls now shift focus to their second fixture against Zimbabwe, set for Thursday, June 5, at 10:45 AM at the Gahanga Main Oval.
As defending champions, Uganda will be keen to carry this early dominance deeper into the tournament and make another strong case for the title.
