Match Summary:
Canada: 67 all out in 19 overs
Uganda: 68/3 in 11.5 overs
Result: Uganda won by 7 wickets
Player of the Match: Kevin Amuge (4 overs, 4/17)
Uganda’s national women’s cricket team, the Victoria Pearls, launched their 2025 Victoria Series campaign in style with a convincing 7-wicket win over Canada at the Lugogo Cricket Oval on Monday.
Powered by a standout bowling performance from Kevin Amuge and a calm, unbeaten knock by captain Janet Mbabazi, Uganda secured their first points of the tournament in emphatic fashion.
Winning the toss and opting to bowl, Uganda seized control early as Kevin Amuge applied pressure with tight lines and early breakthroughs. Canada struggled through the powerplay, managing just 22/2, as Amuge and Consylate Aweko stifled the scoring.
Naome Jane Amongin dismissed the dangerous Achini Perera, while two quick runouts further damaged Canada’s hopes. Only Perera (13) and Amarpal Kaur (18) reached double figures before the side was bowled out for 67 in 19 overs.
Amuge’s impressive 4/17 led the attack, supported by Immaculate Nakisuyi (2/13), Sarah Akiteng, and Amongin, who shared the remaining wickets.
Uganda’s response was calm and composed. Captain Janet Mbabazi anchored the innings with an unbeaten 37, guiding the team past the target in just 11.5 overs.
Despite the early loss of Esther Iloku, contributions from Nakisuyi (15) and Rita Musamali (9) ensured the chase never wavered. Uganda finished at 68/3, sealing a comfortable win with seven wickets and 49 balls to spare.
Skipper Janet Mbabazi praised the team’s all-round effort but noted room for improvement:
“We’re happy with the win, but one of our key focus areas from the qualifiers is our batting. We hope to improve in the coming games and build on this start.”
Canada’s captain Amarpal Kaur remained positive despite the loss:
“It wasn’t about the pitch — it played flat. We just didn’t bat well. The conditions here in Uganda are good for us as a team, and we’re looking forward to a strong tournament ahead.”
Uganda will look to continue their winning momentum as they face Canada again in Game 2 of the Victoria Series on Tuesday, October 21 at 2:00 PM at the Lugogo Cricket Oval.
