Uganda are set to host another series on their shores, the 2025 Women’s Day Cup. The fact that the series will commence on International Women’s Day from 8th March 2025, makes the event more significant. The series, which includes the teams that are on the rise in the women’s game, in the form of Namibia, Nepal, Hong Kong, alongside the hosts Uganda, will be played at the picturesque Lakeside Oval in Entebbe.
The Quadrangular series will be played in the double round-robin format, and it will be a 20-over contest, with the final being played between the top two teams placed in the points table in the series. The tournament provides a critical platform for the hosts Uganda to fine-tune their skills for the crucial year ahead.
Fresh from their triumph in the Kwibuka Women’s Twenty20 Tournament held in May-June 2024, Uganda, captained by the dynamic Janet Mbabazi, continues to ride high on momentum. Their unbeaten streak throughout the tournament culminated in a resounding final win over Cameroon, with Uganda securing victory by an impressive 95 runs.
This success underscores their consistent prowess in the format, boasting an impressive win rate of about 62%, a testament to their growing stature as a force to be reckoned with in international women’s cricket.
Uganda Squad for the Women’s Day Cup 2025:
Janet Mbabazi (C), Consy Aweko, Kevin Awino, Immaculate Nakisuyi, Stephanie Nampiina, Rita Musamali, Sarah Akiteng, Phiona Khulume, Malisa Ariokot, Irene Mutoni, Patricia Malemikia, Proscovia Alako, Sarah Walaza, Esther Iloku
Irene Mutoni, skipper Janet Mbabazi, Consy Aweko, and Proscovia Alako are some of the players to watch out for as far as the hosts are concerned.
The Women’s Day Cup is not just another tournament; it carries significant weight as it has been granted T20I status. This means that the Victoria Pearls, Uganda, have a golden opportunity to bolster their global rankings by accumulating crucial points. Their sights are set on defeating lower-ranked Nepal and Hong Kong, while also pushing to topple the higher-ranked Namibian team for a substantial ranking boost.
One of the most compelling storylines heading into the tournament is the emergence of 17-year-old fast bowler Irene Mutoni. Fresh from outstanding performances in Uganda’s U19 team, Mutoni has earned her senior debut, replacing experienced veteran Evelyn Anyipo.
Mutoni’s impressive showings in youth tournaments, including an MVP award in Division 2, have made her an exciting talent to watch. This selection is not only a testament to her skill but also a bold move by the selectors, highlighting the depth and potential within Ugandan cricket.
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