Raw Emotions: Uganda's dugout stormed the pitch and erupted into a frenzy as they joined the two batters in the middle to celebrate a famous five-wicket win over their hosts Namibia to level the series. PHOTO/CRICKET NAMIBIA
Uganda’s national women’s cricket team, the Victoria Pearls, defeated hosts Namibia by five wickets in a dramatic final match to level the Capricorn Series 3-3 and share the trophy in Windhoek on Tuesday evening.
Uganda chased down Namibia’s total of 139/4 in the final over, finishing on 140/5 and securing a memorable win in what was a nail-biting finale to a well-contested six-match T20 series.
Having won the toss and opting to bowl first, Uganda struck early with Janet Mbabazi claiming two wickets in the powerplay. Despite the early blows, Namibia recovered well, led by Kayleen Green’s 48, Yasmeen Khan’s 35, and Wilka Mwatile’s 21, posting the tournaments highest total of 139/4 in 20 overs.
Match-winning combo
Uganda’s chase got off to a rocky start, losing opening batter Shaikra Saddick and Immaculate Nakisuyi via runouts within the first three overs. But the middle order stood tall. Wicket-keeper batter Esther Iloku, once again,played confidently for her 36 before falling to a sharp return catch to off-spinner Eveleen Kejarukua (1/16), and it was left to the experienced duo of Victoria Pearls vice-captain Rita Musamali (40) and Stephanie Nampiina (39 off 30) to resurrect the innings with a match-winning 69-run stand.
With 12 needed off the final over, Namibia faltered under pressure, committing costly overthrows and misfields. The final ball produced chaos and composure in equal measure—Stephanie Nampiina’s run-out was overshadowed by a final fumble that handed Uganda three runs and the game, to the delight of the Pearls’ dugout that erupted into a frenzy at the newly constructed High Performance Oval in Windhoek.
CAPRICORN EAGLES SERIES
Match Summary:
- Namibia-W: 139/4 in 20 overs
- Uganda-W: 140/5 in 20 overs
- Uganda-W won by 5 wickets
Player of the Match:
Stephanie Nampiina (39 off 30 & 1 catch)
- Series Result: Drawn 3-3 (Trophy Shared)
Purpose & Pride: Stephanie Nampiina deservedly won the Player of the Match Award for her industrious knock of 39 off 30 that helped Uganda chase down a stiff 140 to level the series. PHOTO/CRICKET NAMIBIA
Individual Awards:
- Best Bowler: Consy Aweko (Uganda) – 6 wickets for 92 runs in 24 overs
- Best Batter: Esther Iloku (Uganda) – 147 runs at an average of 24
- Most Valuable Player: Wilka Mwatile (Namibia)– 6 wickets, 102 runs & 3 fielding dismissals
Quotes:
Stephanie Nampiina (Player of the Match):
“By the time I entered, there were so many balls to play. So I told myself that all I have to do with my batting partner is to get singles and some boundaries. I am happy to have contributed to the victory.”
Janet Mbabazi (Uganda Captain):
“We wanted to express ourselves and take our third win home. The girls worked hard and showed great belief. Hats off to Musamali, Nampiina, young Irene Mutoni with the ball, and Consy Aweko who’s been special all tournament. We are proud to share this joy with our fans at home.”
Sune Wittmann (Namibia Captain):
“If you were not entertained today, then I don’t know where you’re going to get entertainment from. Hats off to Uganda – it was a massive game to cap off a great series. Both teams have grown, and we’re excited for what lies ahead.”
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