When the girl’s schools cricket tournament kicked off in May this year, all eyes were on the glory that came with being crowned champions. For many who knew that not winning the trophy was not the end of the road, they put in brilliant individual performances and were rewarded by being selected to represent the country at the Kwibuka Cricket for Peace tournament in Kigali later this week.
With the final fourteen selected and preparations complete, the girls under the guidance of Mugalula Habib depart for Kigali today where they will face off against defending champions Kenya, Rwanda and Zambia. Captained by a very experienced Rita Musamali (Jinja SSS), the team will be hoping to pull one over their opponents in the grueling 4 days of cricket in Rwanda’s capital.
Kenya, Rwanda and Zambia will all be fielding their senior women’s teams with Kenya being favorites to retain their crown. However, coach Mugalula will be hoping that his young charges will steady their nerves on a stage bigger than the school’s tournament and perform beyond expectations. Having players like Immaculate Nakisuyi and Stephanie Nampiina along with Rita Musamali, all with international experience will be a big boost to the new comers to the stage.
UCA GIRLS’ SCHOOLS SELECT TEAM
Rita Musamali (Captain) (Jinja SSS)
Fillister Akello (Light SSS)
Rita Alungat (Light SSS)
Ann Nyapendi (Masaka SSS)
Jane Baluka (Masaka SSS)
Kevin Awuro (Light SSS)
Brenda Nabisalu (St James SSS)
Maria Mwesige (Ndejje SSS)
Eva Afaya (St John SS)
Immaculate Nakisuyi (Jinja SSS)
Stephanie Nampiina (Jinja SSS)
Sandra Achawo (Light SSS)
Patricia Nandera (St John SS)
Beatrice Kanyesige (Mt Rwenzori SS)
Coach - Mugalula Habib (Jinja SSS)
Manager - Lwiza Nabulwala (Ndejje SSS)