Uganda’s senior women’s cricket team, the Victoria Pearls, secured a place in the semifinals of the 11th Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament after dispatching Malawi by 50 runs in their fifth straight win of the tournament at Gahanga Main Oval.
The star of the day was Stephanie Nampiina, who produced a stunning spell of off-spin bowling, claiming 6 wickets for just 8 runs in 4 overs — the best bowling figures in the tournament so far — to bowl out Malawi for a paltry 53 runs in just 10 overs. Her match-winning performance earned her the Player of the Match award and firmly placed Uganda at the top of the table with 10 points from five matches.
Match Summary – Game 5
Uganda: 103/6 (20 overs)
Malawi: 53 all out (10 overs)
Result: Uganda won by 50 runs
Player of the Match: Stephanie Nampiina – 4 overs, 6 wickets, 8 runs
Next Match: Uganda vs. Tanzania – June 10, 10:45 AM, Gahanga Main Oval
Despite a shaky start with the bat — losing captain Janet Mbabazi for 1 run in the first over and enduring two early run-outs — Uganda’s middle order showed composure. Kevin Awino (31), Rita Musamali (28), and a fiery cameo from Proscovia Alako (20 off 12) helped the team recover to a respectable 103/6. Malawi’s Lucy Malino picked up two wickets, with Lydia Dimba and Christina Bwanali also contributing with a wicket each.
In the second innings, Phiona Kulume and Sarah Walaza set the tone with early breakthroughs before Nampiina turned the match into a one-sided affair. Her destructive spell dismantled the Malawian batting order, with only a few players reaching double digits.
Esther Iloku took over wicketkeeping duties for the day as usual keeper Kevin Awino took to the field instead, further demonstrating the team’s flexibility and depth.
With their semifinal spot secured and a perfect record intact, the Victoria Pearls will rest on June 9 before facing Tanzania on June 10, aiming to complete the group stage unbeaten and maintain momentum heading into the knockout rounds.
Uganda are not only in pursuit of the title but also on a mission to defend their crown with flair and dominance.
