Sacred Heart Secondary School have been crowned Northern Region champions after a 24-run win over Masindi Secondary School in the Girls Schools Cricket Week Qualifiers final at St Joseph’s College Layibi on April 15.
Defending a modest total, Sacred Heart delivered a disciplined all-round performance to retain their regional title and secure a place at the 2026 nationals, continuing a run of dominance in schools girls’ cricket.
Batting first after Masindi opted to bowl, Sacred Heart posted 100 for 7 in 20 overs. The innings was built on resilience, with Ritah Amono Nyero scoring 15 and Patricia Anek Ambrose adding 18, as regular wickets slowed momentum.
Masindi’s bowling effort was led by Peace Ninsima, who claimed three wickets to keep the target within reach.
In response, Masindi struggled to build partnerships after losing early wickets in the powerplay. Safina Kyosaba anchored the innings with 12 not out, while Shalot Akugizibwe top-scored with 19, but the chase never gathered momentum.
Sacred Heart’s bowlers shared the workload, with Hanifa Noreen taking two key wickets, while Petra Akidi and Joyce Lakica contributed to a sustained spell of pressure. Sharp fielding, including multiple run-outs, further disrupted Masindi’s pursuit as they closed on 76 for 7.
The victory confirms Sacred Heart, Masindi Secondary School, St Theresa Girls Secondary School and hosts Gulu High School as the Northern Region representatives at the national finals.
Northern Region Development Officer Grace Mutyagaba said the standard of competition continues to improve.
“The schools have played good cricket over the past few weeks, and we are hopeful of strong performances at the nationals,” she said.
“The game continues to grow, with new entrants like St Mary’s Ediofe Girls’ Secondary School from Arua joining the qualifiers. This reflects our progress in expanding cricket in line with National Council of Sports requirements. We also thank Cricket Uganda and the schools for supporting these athletes.”
Five schools took part in the regional qualifiers, progressing through district competitions, as attention now turns to the national stage.
