The Easter Women’s T20 Cup got underway this morning at the Entebbe Oval, with Uganda’s Victoria Pearls taking on the visiting United States Women’s team.
The tournament, running until April 15, was originally planned as a tri-series including Nepal Women, but logistical challenges forced their withdrawal. Uganda and USA now headline the competition alongside Uganda A Women.
Cricket Uganda’s Head of High Performance and Pathways, Richard Okia, highlighted the tournament’s role in preparing national squads.
“These Easter Women’s T20 matches are a perfect stage to test our teams at a high level. For the Victoria Pearls, it’s about sharpening our edge and building winning momentum, while Uganda A Women gain invaluable exposure to fast-track their growth and confidence on the international stage,” he said.
The Victoria Pearls return to competitive action after a four-month break following their stint at the ICC Women’s Emerging Trophy in Thailand, where they recorded two wins against strong opposition.
The squad blends experience with youth, with young all-rounder Sheila Namagoba in line for her debut. Coach Deus Muhumuza said, “She is a young talent eager to learn. This environment will help her understand what it takes to perform at the highest level.”
Uganda will be led by captain Janet Mbabazi, the top scorer in Thailand, with support from the spin trio of Immaculate Nakisuyi, Consy Aweko, Sarah Akiteng, pacer Malisa Ariokot, and swing bowler Kevin Amuge. Uganda A Women are captained by Phiona Egaru Kulume.
For the USA team, this series offers crucial match practice ahead of the ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy in Rwanda. Captain Aditiba Chudasama said, “The opportunity to play a series like this is a great way to prepare for the Challenge Trophy. Game time for the girls is extremely important, especially with new faces getting time in the middle. Uganda is an experienced side that has been playing together for a long time. It will be interesting to test ourselves against such a quality team, especially on their home turf.”
The tournament kicked off with a pre-match engagement at the U.S. Embassy in Nsambya, where Ambassador William W. Popp hosted the USA squad, Victoria Pearls, and Cricket Uganda officials. The session included a light cultural exchange and cricket demonstration, strengthening ties between the teams ahead of the competition.
Fixtures run through April 15, featuring multiple clashes between Uganda, Uganda A, and USA. Both nations see the series as a strategic build-up to major ICC events, with a focus on experience, team cohesion, and preparing emerging talent for the international stage.
