Baby Victoria Pearls U19 World Cup Qualifiers: Uganda Aims for Glory in Africa
The Baby Victoria Pearls, Uganda’s U-19 National Women’s Cricket Team, is gearing to make a very important journey to Kigali, Rwanda, as they take part in the U19 World Cup Qualifiers. Facing them is competition for Africa’s only ticket to the 2025 ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia out of seven countries starting from 20th September 2024 to 30th September 2024.
Group A Challenges Await
Uganda is grouped with Rwanda, Namibia, and Kenya. The Baby Victoria Pearls aim to improve their fourth-place finish in the 2022 Botswana qualifiers, with every game bringing high stakes. The top two in each group go through to the semifinals, and only the tournament winner will eventually represent Africa at the World Cup.
Aiming for World Cup Glory
In the last attempt, Uganda emerged fourth in Botswana during the 2022 World Cup qualifier. Energized and full of experience, the Baby Victoria Pearls are determined to surpass their previous performance to secure a spot in the World Cup. The journey to the semifinals will be important because only two teams per group will see their way, dreaming of representing the continent on the world stage.
Veteran Players Lead the Charge
Captain Jimia Mohammad and six other returning players, including Lorna Anyait, Malisa Ariokot, and Immaculate Nandera, will lead the Baby Victoria Pearls. Their experience in high-stakes qualifiers could play a key role in Uganda’s campaign.
Head Coach Yusuf Nanga emphasized their readiness: “We’ve had ample time to get the girls in shape. Our goal is World Cup qualification, and we know top performance is essential to achieve that,” Nanga said.
Key Matchups and Schedule
The Baby Victoria Pearls’ first game is against Namibia on September 22, 2024. Each match carries weight, as only one team will earn the World Cup ticket. Facing Rwanda and Kenya, two teams with impressive recent form, will be particularly challenging.
Team Roster and Officials
- Captain: Jimia Mohammad
- Players: Lorna Anyait, Malisa Ariokot, Patricia Timong, Shadiah Gilingish Nabulime, Rashidah Tikabula, Irene Mutonyi, Immaculate Nandera, Mary Patricia Apolot, Asumin Akurut, Jane Naume Amongin, Michelle Ariago, Agnes Nakakande, Barbra Nanyanzi
- Head Coach: Yusuf Nanga
- Assistant Coach: Ivan Kakande
- Physiotherapist: Tugume Imam
- Team Analyst: Richard Okia
- Media Manager: Denis Musali
- Team Manager: Lelia Namaganda Ondeko
Eyes on the Prize: A Shot at Global Recognition
The Baby Victoria Pearls are focused on one goal: securing a spot in the 2025 ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup. The journey will be tough, but with a mix of young talent and seasoned players, Uganda’s team is ready to make history in African cricket.
