The Uganda Cricket Association has officially unveiled the 14-player Victoria Pearls squad that will represent the nation at the 2025 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier in Namibia. Ranked 17th globally, Uganda has been placed in Group B alongside East African rivals Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania. The squad has been concluding its non-residential training sessions in Kampala and will transition into a residential camp on August 25 before flying out on August 29. The qualifier, scheduled from August 31 to September 6 in Windhoek, will see the top two teams advance to the ICC Global Qualifier – the crucial step toward the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales.
Head Coach Deus Muhumuza expressed confidence in the squad’s preparedness and depth. He emphasized the balance of experience and youthful energy, pointing out the timely return of Malisa Ariokot and Irene Mutonyi, who are now available after school commitments, as well as the consistent form of all-rounder Naume Jane Amongin. Muhumuza noted that the team has been working hard on refining skills, game awareness, and team cohesion with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the Global Qualifier.
Team captain Janet Mbabazi echoed her coach’s optimism, underlining the Pearls’ collective determination and readiness for the challenge. She also extended a warm welcome to debutant Naome Amongin, who has earned her spot through impressive performances. “The team has been working hard since the year began, and I believe we are ready to give our best. Naome brings fresh energy to the squad, particularly with her bowling, and we are excited to have her on board,” Mbabazi stated.
Uganda will open their campaign against Tanzania on August 31 at the High Performance Oval, before facing Rwanda on September 1 at the same venue. Their final group-stage encounter will be against Kenya on September 3 at the Namibia Cricket Ground. Should they advance from the group, the Pearls will likely face formidable sides such as hosts Namibia and regional powerhouses Zimbabwe in the knockout stages, with only the two finalists earning tickets to the Global Qualifier.
This tournament marks another opportunity for Uganda to build on their recent progress on the international stage. The Pearls last reached the Global Qualifier in 2023 after finishing among the top two at the Africa Division One event in Entebbe. While they managed just one victory against the USA in that campaign, the team has since undergone restructuring under new management and coaching. With renewed focus, strengthened leadership, and a squad blending experience with emerging talent, Uganda will be looking to make a stronger statement this time around in their pursuit of a place at the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
