The Victoria Pearls’ upcoming training tour to the ICWC Omtex Academy reflects a strategic move in preparation for the All Africa Games in Ghana and the T20 Global World Cup Qualifiers in Dubai. The 12-day camp, starting from February 21st to March 3rd, will provide the team with crucial training and experience ahead of these significant cricket events.
The team has undergone some changes, introducing new players like Sarah Walaza, Gloria Obukor, Phiona Khulume and Immaculate Nandera. Proscovia Alako, Patricia Malemikia, and Irene Alumo will not take part on this training tour. Immaculate Nandera, in particular, is set to make her debut for the senior national team.
The focus of the training camp in India is primarily on improving batting techniques, addressing a weakness identified during the qualifiers in December. Head Coach Lawrence Ssematimba emphasises the need for application of players’ skills, expressing confidence that refining batting capabilities will contribute to the team’s success.
The team’s goals include securing a spot in the T20 Women’s World Cup in Bangladesh through the Global T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Dubai. Uganda is grouped with Sri Lanka, USA, Thailand, and Scotland, with the top two teams advancing to the semifinals and the finalists earning World Cup slots.
Additionally, the Victoria Pearls aim for gold at the All Africa Games in Ghana, where cricket will be featured for the first time. They are placed in Group B with Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Rwanda, the team anticipates a competitive tournament.
The training camp in India is seen as crucial for the team to address batting challenges and build confidence before embarking on back-to-back tournaments in Ghana and Dubai. Head Coach Ssematimba expresses a positive attitude about the team’s potential to compete for the gold medal and secure a World Cup place with improved batting performance.
The selected team comprises players like 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, and Immaculate Nandera. The coaching and support staff include Lawrence Ssematimba (Head Coach), Deusdedit Muhumuza (Assistant Coach), Imam Tugume (Physiotherapist), Richard Okia (Team Analyst), and Mary Nankinga (Team Manager).
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