The Uganda national netball team, the She Cranes, has set off for Scotland ahead of the highly anticipated second edition of the Celtic Netball Cup, but they will be without their team captain Racheal Nanyonga and team doctor due to visa complications.
Netball Uganda President Jocelyn Ucanda confirmed the setback, emphasising that the absence of the captain has not dampened team morale.
“The team captain, Nanyonga, has not travelled with the team; her visa has not come out and also the visa for the team doctor. I am left behind to ensure they get their visas so that they can join the team. This has not broken the spirit of the team, they are still very strong and resilient. Once Nanyonga gets her visa the excitement in the camp will definitely go up,” Ucanda stated.
The Celtic Netball Cup is set to run from November 26 to 30, 2025, at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow. Joining hosts Scotland and the She Cranes are Zimbabwe, Northern Ireland, and Namibia in a six-nation round-robin format.
Uganda Fixtures:
November 26: Uganda vs. Namibia
November 27: Northern Ireland vs. Uganda
November 28: Scotland vs. Uganda
November 29: Uganda vs. Zimbabwe
November 30: Wales vs. Uganda
The She Cranes’ travelling squad is composed of a mix of experienced defenders, midcourt players, and sharpshooters, guided by Head Coach Rashid Mubiru and Assistant Coach Ruth Meeme.
Traveling Squad:
Defenders: Shaffie Nalwanja, Gloria Ayaa, Faridah Kadondi, Christine Nakitto, Lillian Ajio, Shakirah Nassaka.
Midcourt: Margaret Baagala, Fildauce Namulema, Lillian Achola, Malisera Akello.
Shooters: Mary Nuba, Specioza Namukose, Shadia Nassanga
Despite the last-minute hiccups, the She Cranes remain determined to make a strong impression in Scotland, with hopes that captain Nanyonga and the team doctor will join them once their visas are cleared.
