By 
She Cranes, Uganda’s national netball team, are set to represent their nation on the international stage at the upcoming Vitality Netball Series, which will take place from February 1 to 9th, 2025, in the United Kingdom.
Head coach Rashid Mubiru has unveiled the final 13-member squad, blending seasoned veterans with promising newcomers, as they prepare to face tough competition in this prestigious four-nation tournament.
Uganda will go head-to-head with the host nation England, South Africa, and Malawi in what is expected to be a highly competitive series.
The Final Squad
The squad is a well-rounded mix of experience and fresh talent. Among the most notable inclusions are debutants Amiya Penelope and Joan Ryekoboth, who will both be representing Uganda for the first time on the international stage.
They will be joining seasoned players like captain Irene Eyaru, Racheal Nanyonga, and Sandra Nambirige, who have all been pivotal to the team’s success in previous international tournaments.
Shooters:
- Christine Namulumba Kango
- Racheal Nanyonga
- Mary Nuba
- Irene Eyaru (Captain)
Mid-Court Players:
- Margaret Bagala
- Joan Ryekoboth
- Hindu Namutebi
- Amiya Penelope
Defenders:
- Mutesi Nassim
- Gloria Aya
- Sandra Nambirige
- Haniisha Muhameed
- Privas Kayeny
Technical Team:
- Rashid Mubiru (Head Coach)
- Ruth Meeme (Assistant Coach)
Mubiru emphasized the rigorous selection process, noting, “It was about combining skills, discipline, and overall readiness.” The final squad reflects this careful selection, with each player bringing a unique set of strengths to the table.
The Road to the Vitality Netball Series
She Cranes are no strangers to the challenges of international netball, but the upcoming tournament will be one of their most exciting yet.
The team will play against some of the best in the world, including England, who will be hosting the tournament, as well as South Africa and Malawi, two teams with strong netball legacies.
Uganda’s opening match is against South Africa on February 1 in Nottingham, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Mubiru has confidence in his team’s preparation and ability to compete at the highest level, stating, “We are prepared to give our best and make Uganda proud.”
The squad will depart for the UK on January 29th, after a brief training break to finalize their preparations. The anticipation is building as the She Cranes aim to showcase their skills and prove their standing among the world’s top netball teams.
Heartbreak for Six Players
While the final squad brings joy and excitement, it also meant heartbreak for six players who were left out of the selection.
Filedaus Namulema, Sylvia Nanyonga, Lilian Achola, Betty Namukaaya, Akello Malisera, and Deborah Nakijoba will not be part of the journey to the UK.
Despite this setback, they are no doubt an integral part of Uganda’s growing netball scene and will continue to play a crucial role in the future of the sport.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Vitality Netball Series marks a significant moment for the She Cranes as they aim to elevate their game on the world stage.
With a squad that blends experience with new talent, Uganda’s national team is ready to take on some of the best teams in the world.
As Mubiru aptly puts it, “We are prepared to give our best and make Uganda proud.” The She Cranes will undoubtedly be a team to watch, and fans across the globe will be cheering them on as they aim for glory.
The Vitality Netball Series runs from February 1 to 9th, 2025, and the She Cranes’ first match against South Africa will kick off their campaign on February 1st.
