By 
Match summary
Tanzania 121/7 in 20 overs
Uganda 120/5 in 20 overs
Tanzania won by one run
Tanzania Women pulled off a heart-stopping 1-run victory over Uganda in a thrilling Group B encounter at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier in Windhoek, reigniting their campaign and exacting revenge for a painful semi-final defeat to Uganda in Entebbe two years ago.
After being sent in to bat, Tanzania posted a steady 121 for 7, thanks to a composed start in the power-play where they reached 42 without loss.
While no batter went on to dominate, Tanzania built their innings through partnerships and smart rotation, keeping the scoreboard moving even as Uganda applied pressure with the ball in the middle overs.
In response, Uganda appeared in control for much of the chase. Esther Iloku anchored the innings with a patient 49 off 55 balls, holding things together after early wickets.
But her dismissal—taken by Tanzania’s standout bowler Sophia Jerome (2 for 8)—proved pivotal.
With 24 needed off the final two overs, Rita Musamali launched a late blitz, smashing 27 off 15 balls, and with Prosscovia Alako adding five runs from just two deliveries, Uganda came heartbreakingly close.
Ultimately, tight death bowling from Nasra Saidi and Agnes Qwele held firm, and Uganda finished just short on 120 for 5.
Despite the loss, Uganda remain very much in the hunt for qualification, though the pressure is now firmly on ahead of their clash with Rwanda on September 1.
The fixture reignites an East African rivalry that has become increasingly competitive. Rwanda are on a six-match winning streak and opened their Group B campaign with a convincing win over Sierra Leone.
Though Uganda have dominated recent head-to-heads, including a 20-run win over Rwanda at the 2025 Kwibuka T20, the momentum currently favors Rwanda.
Rwanda’s Henriette and Skipper Diane have been on top form and are players to watch.
For Uganda, the task is clear: bounce back quickly, correct the lapses in finishing, and bring their experienced core—Iloku, Musamali, and captain Janet—into top form.
With only two spots up for grabs from Group B, the road to the Women’s T20 World Cup gets steeper.
Monday’s clash against Rwanda may well decide Uganda’s fate.
