Day One of the Women’s Easter T20 Cup got off to an electrifying start at Entebbe Cricket Ground, with Uganda holding their nerve in a last-over thriller against USA before returning with a dominant all-round display to overpower Uganda A.
At the heart of both victories was a sensational performance from Sarah Akiteng, who proved decisive with the ball bagging two player of Match awards on the day.
Uganda vs USA – Match One
Toss: Uganda won the toss and elected to bat
Uganda: 103/5 in 20 overs
USA: 102/8 in 20 overs
Result: Uganda won by 1 run
Uganda held their nerve in a thrilling finish to edge USA by just one run in a tightly contested encounter.
Batting first, Uganda posted a modest total of 103/5 in their 20 overs, anchored by a composed innings from Esther Iloku.
She remained unbeaten on 40 off 38 balls, striking four boundaries to hold the innings together.
Janet Mbabazi contributed 23 runs at the top, while Rita Musamali added 15 and Immaculate Nakisuuyi chipped in with 12 to give Uganda a fighting total.
USA’s bowlers were disciplined throughout, with Ritu Priya Singh and Sainavi Kambalapalli picking up two wickets each, while Maahi Madhavan added one.
In reply, USA fell just short despite a spirited chase, finishing on 102/8 in their 20 overs. Nikhar Doshi scored 22, while Gargi Bhogle added 23 and Aditiba Indrajitsinh Chudasama remained unbeaten on 17 to keep hopes alive till the very end.
However, Uganda’s bowlers delivered under pressure, with Sarah Akiteng producing a match-winning spell, claiming four crucial wickets.
Irene Mutonyi provided early breakthroughs with two wickets, while sharp fielding led to key run-outs at vital moments.
In the end, Uganda held on to secure a dramatic one-run victory.
Player of the Match: Sarah Akiteng
Uganda vs Uganda A – Match Two
Toss: Uganda A won the toss and elected to bowl
Uganda: 100 all out in 19.2 overs
Uganda A: 49 all out in 13.3 overs
Result: Uganda won by 51 runs
Uganda delivered a dominant all-round performance to defeat Uganda A by 51 runs.
Batting first after being sent in, Uganda posted 100 all out in 19.2 overs, with Janet Mbabazi leading the way.
She struck 42 off 37 balls, hitting five boundaries to anchor the innings.
She was supported by Esther Iloku, who remained unbeaten on 20, while Rita Musamali added 9 in a steady contribution.
Uganda A’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Lorna Anyait leading the attack with three wickets, while Sarah Walaza, Asumin Akurut, Tino Sarah, and Ariago Michelle each picked up one.
In reply, Uganda A struggled against a disciplined Uganda bowling attack and were bowled out for 49 in 13.3 overs.
Asumin Akurut and captain Phiona Egaru Kulume top-scored with 12 runs each, while Jimia Abdallah Muhammed added 8 in a modest chase effort.
Uganda’s bowlers were outstanding, with Sarah Akiteng producing a sensational spell, claiming five wickets, including a hat-trick, to dismantle the batting line-up.
Malisa Ariokot picked up two wickets, while Mutonyi Irene added one, with sharp fielding contributing to key run-outs.
Uganda sealed a comprehensive 51-run victory.
Player of the Match: Sarah Akiteng
Day One – Summary
Day One of the Women’s Easter T20 Cup delivered both drama and dominance, with Uganda securing back-to-back victories.
A narrow one-run win over USA showcased their composure under pressure, while a commanding 51-run triumph against Uganda A underlined their all-round strength. Sarah Akiteng’s outstanding performances with the ball were the highlight of the day, setting the tone for Uganda’s strong start to the tournament.
Upcoming Fixtures
• Uganda vs Uganda A
• Uganda A vs USA