Uganda’s women’s national cricket team, the Victoria Pearls, marched into the semifinals of the 11th Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament after overpowering Malawi by 50 runs at Gahanga Main Oval, securing their fifth straight victory and confirming their status as title contenders.
After being sent in to bat, Uganda posted 103 for 6 in 20 overs — a total that looked modest until their bowlers turned the match on its head.
Star of the day, Stephanie Nampiina, delivered a devastating spell of off-spin, taking 6 wickets for just 8 runs in 4 overs to dismantle the Malawian innings for 53 all out in 10 overs.
Her haul marks the best bowling performance of the tournament so far and earned her the Player of the Match award.
The Pearls made a few tactical changes for their fifth group-stage fixture, resting experienced players Kevin Amuge, Sarah Akiteng, and Consy Aweko.
Their places were taken by Tino Sarah, Teddy Oyella, and Sarah Walaza, as Uganda lost the toss and were asked to bat — only the second time this has occurred in the tournament.
Uganda’s innings stumbled early. Captain Janet Mbabazi was run out for 1 in the opening over, and another mix-up between Immaculate Nakisuyi and Esther Iloku soon followed.
The team managed just 16 runs in the powerplay. But a steadying middle-order effort led by Kevin Awino (31), Rita Musamali (28), and a late cameo from Proscovia Alako (20 off 12) pushed the score past the 100-run mark.
Malawi’s Lucy Malino picked up two wickets, while Lydia Dimba and Christina Bwanali claimed one each.
Uganda’s bowling effort was clinical from the outset. Phiona Kulume and Sarah Walaza struck early, removing key batters before Nampiina took over.
Her six-wicket demolition of Malawi’s line-up not only sealed a dominant win but also underlined Uganda’s strength in depth — with regular wicketkeeper Kevin Awino fielding while Esther Iloku took the gloves.
With five wins from five and 10 points, Uganda sits atop the table heading into a rest day on June 9.
They return to action on June 10 against Tanzania at Gahanga Main Oval, aiming to close the group stage unbeaten and build momentum heading into the semifinals as defending champions.
