Uganda’s national women’s cricket team, the Victoria Pearls, clinched a tense 4-run win over Zimbabwe High Performance Centre (HPC) in Match 2 of the 11th Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament, continuing their unbeaten run at the annual event hosted at the Gahanga Main Oval in Kigali.
After their confident opening win against Cameroon, the Pearls faced a stiffer challenge from Zimbabwe HPC. Zimbabwe won the toss and chose to bowl first under overcast skies. Uganda made one change to their squad, bringing in experienced spinner Consy Aweko in place of debutant Sarah Tino.
Uganda posted 105 for 5 in their 20 overs. Janet Mbabazi top-scored with 26 runs, anchoring the innings as wickets fell steadily. Proscovia Alako (18) and a composed 22 from Stephanie Nampiina* helped stabilize the innings. Zimbabwe’s bowlers, led by Christabel Chatonzwa (2 wickets), kept things competitive, but 24 extras gave Uganda a vital edge.
In reply, Zimbabwe HPC started confidently, with Chatonzwa continuing her strong performance, scoring 27 runs. However, Uganda’s bowlers applied sustained pressure, especially Aweko (4-0-12-1) and Mbabazi (4-0-10-1), who kept the scoring rate in check.
With Zimbabwe needing 18 runs from the final two overs, Kevin Amuge made the crucial breakthrough by dismissing the in-form Loreen Tshuma (23). Sarah Walaza was tasked with the final over and delivered under pressure, removing Michelle Mavunga (14) to seal a memorable victory.
Mbabazi, whose all-round effort earned her Player of the Match, was instrumental in both innings.
Speaking post-match, Victoria Pearls vice-captain Rita Musamali said:
“Despite the win, we didn’t play our best cricket. We lacked intent with the bat and gave away easy runs in the field. Our field placements need work. We’ll regroup and improve ahead of tomorrow’s match.”
The Victoria Pearls now prepare to take on Sierra Leone in their third group game of the Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament, scheduled for 10:45 AM tomorrow at Gahanga Oval.
