Winning start for Victoria Pearls at African Games 

By Thomas Odonga

The Uganda women’s national cricket team, Victoria Pearls, emerged victorious against Kenya in their opening game at the 13th African Games on Thursday in Accra, Ghana. This year’s edition of the continental meet marks the first inclusion of cricket in the games, and Uganda performed well against their East African neighbors, securing a 6-wicket triumph in the opener.

Match Summary

Kenya 63/8 (17 overs)

Victoria Pearls 66/4 (16.5/17 overs)

Victoria Pearls won by 6 wickets

Victoria Pearls won the toss and elected to field, restricting Kenya to only 63 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 17 overs.

Immaculate Nakisuyi picked up two wickets for the Victoria Pearls and was named the player of the match after successfully dismantling Kenya’s batting lineup. Captain Consy Aweko, Sarah Walaza, and Janet Mbabazi each contributed with a wicket.

However, Melvin Khagoitsa’s resilient 23 off 37 stood out amid her team’s collapsing efforts in the first innings of the game.

Despite early setbacks in their chase, the Victoria Pearls found stability with Gloria Obukor’s resilient 29 off 48, supported by Mbabazi’s solid 15 off 24. Rita Musamali’s crucial 10 off 6 sealed the victory at 66/4 in 16.5 overs.

Kenya fought hard, with standout moments from Khagoitsa building pressure until the final over. However, Uganda prevailed, with Musamali’s boundary securing the win.

Up next, Uganda faces Zimbabwe in a crucial clash for the top spot in Group B. Kenya will come up against Rwanda in the other fixture.

The top two teams will advance to the semifinals, leading to a final for gold and a 3rd/4th place match for the bronze medal.