By Daniel Nyeko
Uganda’s Victoria Pearls continued their fine form at the 2025 Victoria Series with a hard-fought 4-wicket win over Canada at Lugogo Cricket Oval, sealing a 2-0 sweep in the five-match T20 series.
Bowling first, the Pearls kept the visitors in check, restricting them to 82 for 6. Canadian skipper Amarpal Kaur anchored the innings with an unbeaten 30 off 37 balls, while openers Achini Perera and Terisha Lavia added 19 apiece.
But Uganda’s bowlers kept things tight, led by Naume Jane Amongin who delivered a tidy spell of 2 for 10 at an economy of 2.50. Medium pacer Kevin Amuge also claimed two wickets, while veterans Consylate Aweko Nimungu and Sarah Akiteng chipped in with one each.
In reply, Uganda’s chase started nervously as openers Janet Mbabazi and Esther Iloku fell early. But Immaculate Nakisuuyi steadied the innings with a crucial 37 off 57 balls, guiding her side through a tricky spell. Stephanie Nampiina (13 off 13) and Proscovia Alako (unbeaten 12 off 15) kept their composure to take Uganda home with four wickets in hand.
Canada’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Rabbjyot Rajput, Vandana Mahajan, Indomatie Goordial, Amarpal Kaur, and Terisha Lavia each picking up one.
Nakisuuyi, named BlackLyf Player of the Match, was emotional after her match-winning performance. “I won’t say I’m happy for myself, but I’m happy for the team. We needed this win, and I’m glad I could help build partnerships and rotate the strike,” she said.
The two teams will join students from Gayaza High School tomorrow to celebrate ICC Women’s Cricket Week from 2pm to 4pm, before resuming action in the third T20 on Thursday at 10am (EAT) at Lugogo Oval.
