By Daniel Nyeko
Cricket Uganda has confirmed it will host the Canadian Women’s Cricket Team in Kampala for the 2025 Victoria Series, a five-match T20 International contest scheduled from October 18 to 27 at the Lugogo Cricket Oval.
The series, part of the ICC Women’s Cricket Week celebrations, will feature Uganda’s national women’s team, the Victoria Pearls, facing Canada in what promises to be a major milestone for both nations.
Cricket Uganda honorary secretary Denis Musali described the event as a significant step for the sport’s development.
“We are excited to host Canada for this historic series with our Victoria Pearls. It marks the beginning of a great partnership between Uganda and Canada,” Musali said.
The Victoria Pearls head into the series after a strong domestic season and will use the matches as preparation for the ICC Women’s Emerging Trophy in Thailand next month. Head coach Deus Muhumuza said the games will offer a timely opportunity to fine-tune the team’s readiness.
“This series will help us track progress in areas like mental toughness, communication, and role-specific execution,” he said.
Cricket Canada CEO Salman Khan expressed enthusiasm about the growing collaboration between the two federations.
“We are thrilled to send our Canadian Women’s Team to participate in the Victoria Series. Uganda’s Victoria Pearls are a strong and competitive team, and this tour will provide invaluable experience for our players as we continue to grow women’s cricket in Canada,” Khan noted.
Canadian head coach Rizwan Cheema said his side was eager to adapt to new playing conditions and embrace the challenge. “Playing in Uganda will help us grow as a unit. It’s an exciting opportunity for player development and team building,” he said.
Captain Amarpal Kaur echoed her coach’s sentiments, saying her squad was ready for the contest. “It’s an honor to lead in the Victoria Series. We respect Uganda as a strong opponent and are ready to give our best while representing Canada with pride,” she said.
Cheema also announced Canada’s 15-player touring squad: Amarpal Kaur (captain), Achini Perera, Habeeba Barder (wicketkeeper), Srishti Raha (wicketkeeper), Terisha Lavia, Vandana Mahajan, Indomatie Goordial, Rabbjyot Rajput, Krima Kapadia, Tiffany Thorpe, Zeel Patel, Jasmina Oldham, Vritti Dahiya, Kainat Qazi, and Mannat Hundal.
The 2025 Victoria Series represents a major stride for women’s cricket in Uganda, reinforcing the country’s growing reputation as a hub for competitive international cricket.
