The Baby Victoria Pearls began their Women’s High Performance Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 45-run victory over Rwanda in Entebbe on Friday, making a positive start to their preparations for next month’s ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier in Tanzania.
After being put in to bat, Uganda endured a difficult start as captain Shadia Nabulime and Arugo Joyce Mary struggled to build early momentum. The breakthrough came in the second over when Arugo departed for just one run, leaving the hosts searching for stability.
Uganda’s top order found it difficult to settle against a disciplined Rwandan bowling attack, with wickets falling at regular intervals. However, Sarah Tino produced a composed innings when her side needed it most, anchoring the batting with 35 runs off 35 deliveries.
Sheila Namagoba added an unbeaten 11 late in the innings to help Uganda recover to 92/8 from their 20 overs.
Rwanda’s bowlers kept the pressure on throughout the innings. Nasira Umukundwa led the attack with impressive figures of 3/12 from her four overs, while Ruth Umimana claimed two wickets. Grace Mugwaneza and Chanceile Umutoni picked up one wicket apiece.
In reply, the Baby Victoria Pearls’ bowlers took control from the outset, with Mariam Biribawa delivering a Player of the Match performance. The right-arm bowler ripped through Rwanda’s top order, finishing with outstanding figures of 4/10 from four overs. Mukite Asha, Sarah Tino and Sheila Namagoba each chipped in with a wicket as Uganda bowled Rwanda out for 47 in 16.4 overs to seal a comfortable victory.
Speaking after the match, head coach Ivan Kakande said the result was only one part of the team’s objectives during the tournament. “We’re trying to identify the best batting partnerships and combinations that can consistently put runs on the board. This tournament gives us an opportunity to give every player a chance as we prepare for the Africa Qualifier in Tanzania next month.”
The Women’s High Performance Cup serves as valuable preparation for the Baby Victoria Pearls, who will be aiming to secure a historic first-ever appearance at the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup. Uganda will compete alongside seven other nations for the continent’s lone qualification spot.
Uganda and Rwanda will meet again on Saturday afternoon at the Entebbe Cricket Oval for the second match of the series.