Uganda’s Baby Victoria Pearls rounded off their campaign on a high, defeating Rwanda by seven wickets to finish third at the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier Division 1 in Dar es Salaam on Saturday.
Having won the toss and opted to bowl first at the Estim TCA Cricket Arena, Brian Masaba’s charges produced another disciplined bowling display to restrict Rwanda to 73/9 in their allotted 20 overs.
Sheirah Namagoba led the attack with an outstanding spell, claiming 3/5 in four overs, including a maiden. Blessing Noeline Apio provided valuable support with 2/11, while Tino Sarah, Mischelle Ariago and Devine Gabriella Nyamer also chipped in to keep the Rwandan batters under constant pressure.
Rwanda struggled throughout their innings, with captain Fanny Utagushimaninde top-scoring with 21 off 19 balls.
Uganda’s chase got off to a shaky start,
Uganda’s chase got off to a shaky start, but Mary Namiiro settled the nerves with a composed unbeaten 38 off 33 balls, including four boundaries.
She was well supported by tournament Most Valuable Player Tino Sarah, who contributed a patient 20 off 38 deliveries as Uganda steadily worked their way towards victory.
The Baby Victoria Pearls reached 74/3 in 16.1 overs to complete a comfortable seven-wicket victory and secure a deserved podium finish in Dar es Salaam.
Rwanda Innings: 73/9 (20 Overs) – Fanny Utagushimaninde 21 (19), Justine Ingabire 9 (16); Sheirah Namagoba 3/5, Blessing Noeline Apio 2/11, Ruth Uwimana 2/15 (Rwanda bowler)
Uganda Innings: 74/3 (16.1 Overs) – Mary Namiiro 38 (33), Tino Sarah 20 (38); Ruth Uwimana 2/15, Justine Ingabire 1/18
Result: Uganda won by 7 wickets
Source: chimpreports.com
