In a heart-stopping encounter at the Gahanga International Cricket Stadium, Nigeria’s women’s cricket team secured a thrilling five-run victory over Uganda in Match 29 of the Kwibuka Women’s T20I Tournament on Wednesday.
Defending a modest total of 73, Nigeria’s disciplined bowling and electric fielding handed Uganda their first defeat in seven matches, bolstering the West Africans’ semi-final hopes.
Uganda, opting to bowl first after winning the toss, dominated early proceedings, restricting Nigeria to 73 for 9 in 20 overs. Muhibat Amusa Kehinde anchored Nigeria’s innings with a gritty 30 off 52 balls, navigating a challenging pitch.
However, support was scarce, with Salome Sunday (14) and Sarah Etim (8) offering brief contributions. Uganda’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Janet Mbabazi’s stellar 4 for 16, kept Nigeria under relentless pressure. Kevin Amuge (1/6) and Concylate Aweko (1/10) further tightened the screws, ensuring regular breakthroughs.
Chasing a seemingly manageable 74, Uganda’s experienced batting line-up faltered under Nigeria’s relentless bowling onslaught. The Nigerian bowlers struck early, maintaining a stranglehold on the run rate. Despite Uganda’s depth, they crumbled to 69 all out in 20 overs. Nigeria’s fielders played a pivotal role, executing crucial run-outs and maintaining unwavering intensity. The final overs were a test of nerve, but Nigeria held firm, sealing a famous victory.
This triumph marks Nigeria’s fifth win in eight matches, solidifying their top-four position as they await other results to confirm their semi-final berth. Uganda, previously unbeaten with six wins, now faces a setback in their campaign.
Nigeria’s resilience and teamwork shone through, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the 2025 Kwibuka Women’s T20I Tournament.