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By Abiodun Adewale.
After making a flying start to their campaign at the ongoing ninth edition of the Kwibuka in Rwanda, Nigeria’s female senior cricket team suffered a five-wicket defeat against Uganda on Monday, The PUNCH reports.
The Female Yellow Greens had recorded impressive wins in their first three games against hosts Rwanda, Botswana and Kenya but their wit was tested against the best ranked team at the tournament and it ended in a gallant defeat.
Uganda won the toss and elected to field, thereby sending Nigeria to bat for the first time in the tournament.
Captain Blessing Etim lost her wicket off the first ball in the second over, which allowed Uganda to grow in confidence.
Esther Sandy came up after the 10th over with an impressive half century of 52 runs off 39 balls and a strike rate of 133.3, partnered by the ever-dependable Lucky Piety with massive contribution of 27 runs off 37 balls under immense pressure.
Nigeria finished with 100 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 20 overs.
They began the second inning with a maiden over from Rachael Samson to send indications that Uganda will have to work hard in their run chase. Nigeria was in control for most of the proceedings but for the relentless efforts and experience of Kevin Awino, who scored 22 off 45 runs, and Stephanie Nampiina with 20 runs off 22 balls, and a late surge from Immaculate Nakisuyi, who scored 31 off 20 balls, which was enough to see Uganda across the line to ensure they maintained their expectations and 100 per cent record in the tournament thus far.
Uganda eventually finished quite comfortably with 101 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 18.2 overs and won by five wickets.
After a day of rest on Tuesday (today), the ladies will return to action on Wednesday. They will face Kenya in the morning, before filing out against Rwanda in the afternoon.
