The Victoria Pearls continued their perfect run at the 11th Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament with a ruthless 10-wicket demolition of Sierra Leone on Friday at the Gahanga Main Oval in Kigali.
After winning the toss and electing to bowl on a damp surface, Uganda’s bowling unit wasted no time asserting dominance. Kevin Amuge delivered a fiery spell of 5 wickets for 18 runs in 4 overs, claiming the Player of the Match award with her best figures in national colours. She was backed by Sarah Akiteng, who returned astonishing figures of 3 wickets for 0 runs, wiping out Sierra Leone’s lower order with clinical precision.
Sierra Leone were bowled out for just 32 runs in 11.1 overs, with only a defiant last-wicket stand offering brief resistance.
In response, Uganda’s openers made quick work of the modest chase. Captain Janet Mbabazi (19) and Esther Iloku (12) cruised to 33 without loss in just 4.5 overs, sealing Uganda’s third straight win and further boosting their already impressive net run rate.
Iloku, stepping in as wicketkeeper in place of Kevin Awino, who was celebrating her birthday, also impressed behind the stumps.
The match also saw two tournament debuts — Teddy Oyella and Phiona Kulume — with Oyella making her first appearance in national colours and conceding just 7 runs in her 4-over spell, including a maiden.
Amuge reflected on the performance: “We executed our bowling plans perfectly. I just focused on hitting my areas, and the rewards followed. I’m happy to contribute and excited for the Brazil challenge tomorrow.”
With three wins from three, the Victoria Pearls remain unbeaten and top the standings. They now shift focus to Brazil, their next opponents on Saturday, June 7 at 10:00 AM at Gahanga Main Oval.
