Jimia Muhammad has been named the captain of the U19 girls’ team as they return to camp to resume preparations for the inaugural U-19 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers set to be held in Botswana in September.
Due to exams and the Schools Cricket Week, the girls had taken a break from the drills, but now resume residential training at Kololo Hotel. The team that initially had 27 players has been trimmed to 17.
During their practice, head coach Yusuf Nanga says much emphasis is put on partnerships.
“We are working on getting them to believe that they can qualify for the world cup,” Nanga told NBS Sport.
“They are ready to compete. We are working on partnerships, in our batting, bowling and fielding. Which we think is key in the tournament we are going to.”
Nanga has a blend of experience in his team. Some of the players have features for the national team, the Victoria Pearls. Jimia is one of those.
The 16-year-old is optimistic and prepared to lead the team in Botswana.
“My team and I are ready. As the captain, I’m confident. I trust in them, and I believe we shall do very well in Botswana and make Ugandans proud,” she noted.
Nine nations that will be divided into two groups are set to take part in this tourney come September.
Uganda will be in Group B alongside Sierra Leone, Namibia and hosts Botswana. Group A consists of Tanzania, Rwanda, Nigeria, Malawi and Mozambique.
The top two teams in each group will advance to the semifinals, and the eventual tournament winner will qualify for the World Cup that will be hosted in South Africa next year.
Uganda is expected to arrive in Botswana on 1st September with their opening game set to be played on 3rd against Namibia at the Botswana Cricket Oval.
Uganda’s final group game will be against the hosts on September 6.
