Uganda’s national women’s cricket team, the Victoria Pearls, has arrived safely in Windhoek ahead of the much-anticipated 2025 Capricorn Eagles Series, which begins tomorrow, April 8, at the newly-constructed High-Performance Cricket Oval.
The week-long tournament, running from April 8 to 15, will see Uganda face hosts Namibia in a six-match T20 International series. This marks a return to familiar territory for the Victoria Pearls, who memorably clinched the 2023 edition of the series with a nail-biting four-run victory in the final.
Fresh from their 2024 Women’s Day Cup triumph in Entebbe, where they defeated Namibia for a fourth consecutive time, Uganda is brimming with confidence. The team delivered dominant performances, including a four-wicket win and a massive 74-run win in a dramatic double-header, proving their prowess over the Capricorn Eagles.
The Pearls will field a slightly altered squad for this campaign. Shakira Sadiick and pace bowler Evelyn Anyipo have joined the team, replacing Proscovia Alako and Patricia Malemikia, who are unavailable due to work commitments. Also returning to the fold is young pacer Irene Mutoni, who impressed in her recent showing in Entebbe and is set to provide added depth.
Victoria Pearls head coach Deus Muhumuza emphasized the tour’s importance in refining the team’s consistency and execution.
“Fresh from our Women’s Day Cup triumph, the team is in high spirits. Our goal as the technical team is to build consistency in performance and improve execution under pressure,” Muhumuza said. “We are excited to play Namibia at the newly developed venue that will host the ICC T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers in August.”
Team captain Janet Mbabazi echoed the coach’s sentiments, highlighting the team’s hunger and belief.
“Every tour is a fresh opportunity to test what we’ve been working on. We’re excited to be back in Namibia where we’ve had great memories,” she said. “I’m looking forward to the team playing fearless cricket, breaking new ground, and most importantly, enjoying the game. We’ll take it one game at a time — but yes, we are here to win the Capricorn Series.”
Victoria Pearls Squad:
Janet Mbabazi (Captain), Consy Aweko, Immaculate Nakisuyi, Kevin Awino, Rita Musamali, Stephanie Nampiina, Sarah Walaza, Sarah Akiteng, Phiona Kulume, Shakira Sadiick, Malisa Ariokot, Irene Mutoni, Evelyn Anyipo, Esther Iloku.
