The opening day of the national schools’ cricket championship delivered thrilling action across various grounds in Gulu, with defending champions Light Secondary School making a resounding statement. Debutants Mt. St Henry’s Mukono also impressed, while Sacred Heart Secondary School and Iganga Secondary School enjoyed dominant performances in their respective matches.
Group A: Light SS Starts Strong, Debutants Stun
Defending champions Light SS lived up to their reputation with a ruthless 10-wicket victory over St James SS at Gulu High School Ground. St James SS crumbled under the disciplined bowling attack of Light SS, managing a paltry 17 runs in 15 overs, with 14 of those coming from extras. Sarah Tino spearheaded the bowling unit, claiming 3 wickets for a mere 0.5 economy, well-supported by Michelle Ariago and Sophia Bogere, who each took two wickets. Light SS then chased down the target in a mere 2.1 overs without losing a wicket, showcasing their dominance.
In another Group A encounter at Layibi College Ground, debutants Mt. St Henry’s Mukono pulled off a stunning 17-run victory over seasoned campaigners Gayaza High School. Batting first, Mt. St Henry’s posted a respectable 97/4 in their 20 overs, with opener Shatra Agenrwot anchoring the innings with a patient 42 off 53 balls. Gayaza’s chase faltered under pressure and poor communication, resulting in four of their seven wickets being run-outs.
Group B: Sacred Heart and Iganga Display Northern Dominance
Sacred Heart SS emerged as the highest-scoring team of the day, securing a comprehensive 104-run victory against their Northern Region rivals, Gulu High School, at Gulu Primary Ground. Sacred Heart posted an impressive 166/6 in their 20 overs, with significant contributions from Noreen Hanif (31), Wonders Agenrwat (29), Genesis Lakereber (23), and Rita Amono (20). In reply, Gulu High’s batting order collapsed under scoreboard pressure, managing only 62 runs in 16.5 overs. Amono capped off a solid all-round performance by taking 3 wickets.
Iganga SS also showcased their prowess with a commanding 91-run victory over fellow Nile Region team Jinja SS at Gulu Prison Ground. Jinja’s top order put on a strong showing, with Hope Sheila Mbeiza (36) and Mary Namiiro (32) guiding them to 128/4. However, Iganga’s batting crumbled under pressure and they were skittled for just 37 runs in 14.5 overs.
Afternoon Session: Sacred Heart and Iganga Continue Winning Streak
Sacred Heart SS continued their stellar performance in the afternoon session, securing their second victory of the day with a 33-run win over Masindi SS at Layibi College Ground. In a reduced 15-over contest, Sacred Heart posted 80/5, with Beatrice Aiko (23) and Hellen Labong (16) providing stability. Masindi’s top order struggled, managing only 47/5 in their 15 overs, despite a strong bowling effort from Prisca Kyomugisha who took 3 wickets.
Iganga SS also bounced back impressively in their second match, defeating Nyakasura School by 63 runs at Layibi College Ground 2. After being put in to bat, Iganga posted a solid 140/4 in their 20 overs. Nyakasura’s response never gained momentum, and they were bowled out for 77 in 17.1 overs. Iganga skipper Lamara Prudence led from the front, taking 3 wickets to seal the win.
Other Results:
Olila High School secured a dominant 90-run victory over Masindi SS at Layibi College Ground 2. Olila posted 156 all out in 19.5 overs, while Masindi SS were bundled out for a mere 66 in 17.1 overs.
Masaka SS registered a comfortable 9-wicket victory over St James SS at Gulu Prison Ground. St James SS managed 63/9 in their 20 overs, which Masaka chased down with ease, scoring 66/1 in just 10.2 overs.
St John’s SS defeated Good Heart SS by 59 runs (DLS method) at Gulu High Ground in a rain-affected match. St John’s posted 147/3 in 20 overs, thanks to a fine 44 from Mitchelle Lokwiva and 31 from Gilingish Shadia Nabulime. Rain interrupted Good Heart’s chase, and their revised target of 99 runs in 9 overs proved too challenging, as they managed only 39/6.
The match between Ndejje SS and Mt Rwenzori SS at Gulu Primary Ground was abandoned due to persistent rain after Ndejje SS posted 96/9 in their 20 overs. Mt Rwenzori did not get a chance to bat.
Group Standings After Matchday 1:
Group A:
Light SS: 4 points (1 match)
Mt. St Henry’s Mukono: 4 points (1 match)
Olila High School: 4 points (1 match)
Group B:
Sacred Heart SS: 8 points (2 matches)
Iganga SS: 4 points (2 matches)
Jinja SS: 4 points (1 match)
Masaka SS: 4 points (1 match)
St John’s SS: 4 points (1 match)
The opening day has set the stage for an exciting tournament, with several teams establishing themselves as strong contenders. The action continues tomorrow with more crucial encounters.
