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Captain Janet Mbabazi motivates Uganda’s women’s cricket team ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the need to approach the tournament with enjoyment and readiness for strong competition.

Newly elected captain of the Victoria Pearls, Janet Mbabazi, has imparted advice to her players who are set to depart for Abu Dhabi to compete in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier, urging them to create enduring memories. Mbabazi reiterated this sentiment during the team’s ceremonial send-off held in Lugogo on Thursday 18th April, 2024.

“We have welcomed several new players to the team, and I encourage them to approach the tournament with a spirit of enjoyment,” remarked Mbabazi.

The 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier is scheduled to take place from April 25 to May 7, marking Uganda’s second participation since 2018 in the Netherlands.

Mbabazi, one of the six players from the Victoria Pearls squad traveling to Abu Dhabi who also competed in the 2018 tournament, emphasized the challenges awaiting the team, particularly the younger members, in a competition featuring seasoned players.

In Abu Dhabi, Uganda is placed in Group A alongside Scotland, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the United States, with the top two teams advancing to the semifinals. Group B comprises Ireland, Netherlands, host nation United Arab Emirates, Vanuatu, and Zimbabwe.

Mbabazi assumed the captaincy from Consy Aweko following the African Games in Accra, where Uganda missed securing a medal. Aweko, in turn, encouraged her teammates to adhere to the guidance provided by their coaches for improved performance.

Uganda secured qualification for the global tournament by finishing second in the 2023 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier held in Entebbe, Uganda. Patricia Malemikia and Irene Alumo have been replaced by Phiona Kulume, Gloria Obukor, and Sarah Walaza.

Seventeen-year-old Malisa Ariokot, one of the budding talents in the team traveling to Abu Dhabi, aspires to showcase her cricketing prowess to pave the way for other young girls in her homeland.

“We are equipped with all we need, and I intend to display exceptional cricketing skills to inspire other young girls, following in the footsteps of our predecessors,” expressed Ariokot.

The top two finalists in Abu Dhabi will secure berths for the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, slated to be held in Bangladesh from September to October.