Approximately a week ago, the Victoria Pearls, Uganda’s National Senior Women’s Cricket team, commenced their residential training in Entebbe as part of their preparations for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers. An initial squad of 18 players has been called up for training, from which the final 14 will be selected.
With just 42 days left until the tournament kicks off, there is much to be done to ensure that the Pearls are fully prepared for their goal of securing a place in next year’s World Cup.
While the primary objective is to hone the all-around skills of the players, Head Coach Lawrence Ssematimba emphasizes that their current focus is on refining their performance during the power play.
“We are concentrating more on batting, which is why we are now utilizing indoor nets,” Ssematimba explained. “Our main goal is to enhance our scoring, especially during the power play. Additionally, we are ensuring that the bowlers maintain the correct lines and lengths.”
The decision to house the players in a residential camp has proven to be a wise one, according to Ssematimba. He believes that it is beneficial for the team’s progress and teamwork.
“This camp is facilitating our efforts to ensure that the players spend more time together, build camaraderie among themselves, and promote a cohesive team spirit as we work together,” he stated.
Uganda will face stiff competition from seven other teams, including Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Botswana, as they vie for a spot in the Global Qualifiers. Only the top two teams from this continental qualifier will advance to the global stage.
The continental qualifier is scheduled to take place from December 7 to 18 at the Green Oval in Entebbe. Prior to this major event, there will be an all-Eastern African mini-tournament in November, featuring Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda. This mini-tournament will serve as a precursor to the larger event in December.
