By Daniel Nyeko
The Sipi Trekkers clinched the inaugural LYCA Super Women’s T20 Series title at Lugogo Cricket Oval after overcoming the Itanda Kayakers in the eliminator and defeating the previously unbeaten Bujjagali Rafters in Monday’s final.
In the eliminator, the Trekkers elected to bowl first and restricted the Kayakers to 109 for 7. Rita Musamali led the charge for the Kayakers with a quick 59 off 35 balls, while Naome Mbwali added 34 off 35.
Skipper Janet Mbabazi spearheaded the Trekkers’ bowling with 3 for 16, supported by Phiona Kulume and Teddy Oyella, who took one wicket each.
Chasing 110, the Trekkers reached 124 for 7, thanks to Mbabazi’s first-ever half-century, a steady 52 off 52 balls. Stephanie Nampiina chipped in with 27 off 21. Crucially, the Trekkers kept their discipline in the field, conceding just three extras compared to the Kayakers’ 23, sealing a five-run win and a spot in the final.
Against the Rafters in the decider, the Trekkers once again opted to bowl first and delivered another tight display. The Rafters, unbeaten until then, were restricted to 66 for 8, with Immaculate Nakisuuyi top scoring with 12 and Malisa Ariokot adding 8. Kulume starred with the ball, taking 4 wickets, while Sheila Namagoba and Oyella shared the rest.
The Trekkers’ chase was measured, reaching 67 for 6 in 18 overs. Muhammed Abdallah Jimia anchored the innings with 22 off 39 balls, supported by Leila Nalukenge’s 19 off 37 and Nampiina’s 10 off 12. Ariokot threatened to turn the game with a five-wicket haul for the Rafters, but the Trekkers held firm to claim a four-wicket win and lift the trophy.
The victory caps a dominant run for the Sipi Trekkers, who combined disciplined bowling with steady batting to reign supreme in the first edition of the LYCA Super Women’s T20 Series.
