Uganda and Zimbabwe emerged triumphant in the Africa Qualifier, securing the last two spots at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier. The two teams displayed outstanding performances, going undefeated in their respective groups and winning crucial knockout matches to clinch their places.
In a nail-biting semi-final, Uganda faced Tanzania, finding themselves at 5/3 in the fifth over after being put in to bat. However, a resilient partnership between Stephani Nampiina (51) and Rita Musamali (35*) helped Uganda reach a challenging total of 99/4. Tanzania seemed in control during the chase at 53/1 in the 13th over, but all-rounder Janet Mbabazi’s heroics, claiming 3/14, turned the game in Uganda’s favor. Musamali’s crucial bowling performance (3/11) sealed a thrilling 10-run win, earning her the Player of the Match award.
Zimbabwe secured their spot with an 86-run victory over Namibia in a dominant display. Each member of Zimbabwe’s top four contributed significantly, with Modester Mupachikwa’s 33 guiding the team to 150/6. In reply, Namibia struggled, managing only 64 runs as Precious Marange (3/9), Nomvelo Sibanda (2/8), and Josephine Nkomo (2/4) orchestrated a collective bowling effort.
The tournament final saw Zimbabwe chasing down Uganda’s 79 with ease, thanks to Marange’s exceptional figures of 5/7, including a hat-trick. Marange’s stellar performance earned her the Player of the Final accolade.
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 Qualifier
Uganda and Zimbabwe will now join Ireland, Netherlands, Scotland, Sri Lanka, Thailand, UAE, USA, and Vanuatu at the ten-team Global Qualifier. The Global Qualifier, scheduled for September and October in Bangladesh, will determine the final two spots for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024.
With these victories, Uganda’s cricketing success in 2023 continues, following the men’s qualification for the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. The African duo will join the already confirmed entrants for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2024, which includes Australia, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, West Indies, and the host nation.
