The Uganda Rugby Union (URU) has unveiled a 40-player provisional squad for the Lady Cranes XVs team, which is set to compete in the Rugby Africa Women’s Division 1 tournament in April 2025.
The squad, which includes several players from the 7s program, will begin preparations on Wednesday at Kyadondo Rugby Club.
The tournament will take place from April 9 to April 19, 2025, in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire.
Uganda will face hosts Côte d’Ivoire, Tunisia, and Zimbabwe, with the ultimate goal of securing victory and earning a spot in the Rugby Africa Women’s Performance Division.
Recognizing the growing strength of the Lady Cranes, the URU Executive Committee has appointed the Lady Cranes 7s management team to oversee preparations. Charles Onen has been named Head Coach of the XVs team, supported by Assistant Coach Ben Kigonog. Dorcus Mundua will continue as Team Manager, assisted by Winnie Atyang. The technical team also includes Strength & Conditioning Coach Byron Okuba and physiotherapists Natasha Natasya and Nelson Mayeku.
The selected squad features standout players such as Anek Patricia (Thunderbirds), Asaba Beth (Ewes), Namatuvu Yione (Black Pearls), and Namuwaya Fazira (Avengers), among others. The blend of experience and emerging talent is expected to strengthen Uganda’s chances in the tournament.
Provisional squad for Lady Cranes XVs
Forwards:
Anek Patricia (Thunderbirds)
Asaba Beth (Ewes)
Kokoi Christine (Black Pearls)
Namatuvu Yione (Black Pearls)
Nakalembe Pheibe (Buddu Cuppaz)
Sijali Doreen (Avengers)
Mirembe Peace (Black Pearls)
Namukwaya Fazira (Avengers)
Najjumba Yvone (Thunderbirds)
Nantongo Phionah (Ewes)
Acen Leona (Black Pearls)
Mukyala Proscovia (Thunderbirds)
Munduru Mercy (Avengers)
Adongpiny Mercy (Ewes)
Agenorwoth Collins (Kitgum Queens)
Ainebyona Juliet (Ewes)
Kirabo Cabrine (Avengers)
Namabiiryo Lydia (Black Pearls)
Adong Suzan (Black Pearls)
Nansimbi Rosemary (Thunderbirds)
Backs:
Nanyonjo Angela (Thunderbirds)
Nakefeero Sarah (Thunderbirds)
Ayikoru Samiya (Thunderbirds)
Namboozo Mastula (Mbale Eagles)
Akello Tina (Nile Rapids)
Bushira Namutebi (Black Pearls)
Namulembwe Habiba (She Wolves)
Lekuru Peace (Avengers)
Nabagala Grace (Kisubi Lady Pacers)
Tiko Latifah (Panthers)
Angayika Comfort (Thunderbirds)
Atek Mercy (Ewes)
Lekuru Emily (Black Pearls)
Akello Christine (Avengers)
Amua Grace (Black Pearls)
Nakuya Agnes (Thunderbirds)
Mufuwa Racheal (Black Pearls)
Namulala Unity (Nile Rapids)
Ayza Flavia (Thunderbirds)
Nanduudu Janet (Thunderbirds)
