By Daniel Nyeko
Uganda’s Victoria Pearls made a flying start to the Victoria Series, easing past Canada by seven wickets in the opening T20 International at Lugogo Cricket Oval on Monday.
After winning the toss and opting to bowl, Uganda’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance to dismiss Canada for just 67 runs in 19.2 overs.
Kevin Amuge was the star of the show, ripping through the lower middle order with an impressive 4 for 17, supported by Immaculate Nakisuuyi (2 for 13) while Sarah Akiteng and Naume Jane Amongin took a wicket apiece.
Canada struggled to build momentum, with captain Amarpal Kaur top scoring with 18 off 31 balls and opener Achini Perera adding 13 off 21. The rest of the lineup crumbled under Uganda’s pressure and sharp fielding.
In response, the Victoria Pearls chased down the target of 68 with ease. Captain Janet Mbabazi led from the front with an unbeaten 37 off 34 balls, striking confidently at a rate of 108.82, while Nakisuuyi chipped in with a steady 15 off 16. Canada’s bowlers—Kaur, Vandana Mahajan, and Perera—each picked a wicket but couldn’t stop Uganda’s charge.
Amuge, who was named Player of the Match for her four-wicket haul and two catches, was visibly emotional after the game. “I’m so happy for myself and my teammates. The team perfectly executed our plan,” she said, dedicating her award to captain Mbabazi and the rest of the squad for their motivation and support.
For Canada, the series serves as an opportunity for growth and exposure during their East African tour. The visitors, who have played only 21 T20Is since 2019, will also face Tanzania after the Uganda series.
Canadian skipper Amarpal Kaur remained upbeat despite the loss. “We bowled according to our plan but didn’t supplement it with good batting,” she said. “It’s a good batting wicket, and we’ll look to improve our performance in the next game.”
Matchday two of the five-match series continues tomorrow at 10 a.m. (EAT) at the same venue.
