The Victoria Pearls wrapped up their 2025 Kwibuka Women’s T20 campaign on a high, beating hosts Rwanda by 20 runs to seal third place in Kigali on Saturday.
After the heartbreak of a narrow semifinal loss to Zimbabwe HPC just a day earlier, Uganda came out sharp and focused at the Gahanga B Oval.
Put in to bat on a slow surface, Uganda played with patience and intent.
Although skipper Janet Mbabazi fell early, the duo of Esther Iloku (23 off 35) and Immaculate Nakisuyi (29 off 31) stitched together a key stand that gave Uganda a solid base. Late cameos from Stephanie Nampiina (21 off 14) and Proscovia Alako (16 off 17) pushed the total to a competitive 107 for 5 in 20 overs.
Uganda’s bowling unit showed up with fire. Kevin Amuge struck early to put pressure on the Rwandan top order, while debutant Sarah Tino stole the spotlight with a magical spell of 3 for 20 in four overs. Her first international wicket was a big one, trapping Rwandan captain Diane Bimenyimana LBW.
Fielding was sharp too, with Rita Musamali in top form. Her nine dismissals in the tournament (six catches and three run outs) underlined Uganda’s commitment in the field.
Rwanda tried to keep up, with Clarisse Umutoniwase top-scoring with 29 off 25, but tight bowling and disciplined fielding shut the door. Rwanda were held to 87 for 7, handing Uganda a 20-run win and the bronze medal.
