Uganda Women edged out USA Women by just one run in a tense opening match of the Easter Women’s T20 Cup 2026, with a disciplined all-round effort highlighted by Sarah Akiteng’s decisive bowling performance.
Batting first, Uganda Women made a steady start, anchored by Janet Mbabazi, who scored 23 off 27 balls. Despite losing Stephanie Nampiina for a duck early, Immaculate Nakisuuyi (12) and Rita Musamali (15) helped stabilise the innings with a brief partnership.
USA Women kept the pressure on through regular breakthroughs, with Sainavi Kambalapalli and Ritu Priya Singh striking at key moments. Uganda’s innings was shaped by Esther Iloku, who remained unbeaten on 40 off 38 balls, hitting four boundaries to ensure a competitive total. Malisa Ariokot added 8* off 6 balls late in the innings, as Uganda finished on 103 for 5 in 20 overs.
Kambalapalli led the USA bowling effort with figures of 2 for 14 in 4 overs, while Ritu Priya Singh returned 2 for 18. Lekha Shetty was economical, conceding 14 runs in 3 overs, and Maahi Madhavan also picked up a wicket.
Chasing 104, USA Women began with intent as Kambalapalli struck 10 off 6 balls, but her dismissal triggered early setbacks. Chetna Reddy Pagydyala fell cheaply, before Nikhar Doshi (22 off 22) and Isani Mahesh Vaghela (11) rebuilt with a useful partnership.
Gargi Bhogle contributed 23 off 26 balls, including two boundaries and a six, while Pooja Ganesh added 8 off 10 as USA stayed in the contest. Late efforts from Aditiba Indrajitsinh Chudasama (17* off 16) and Maahi Madhavan (8* off 11) brought the equation down to the final over.
With USA needing 13 runs from the last six balls, Uganda captain Janet Mbabazi conceded just a boundary to defend the total. USA finished on 102 for 8 in their 20 overs, falling short by one run.
Sarah Akiteng was the standout performer with the ball, claiming 4 for 16 in her 4 overs and breaking key partnerships. Mutonyi Irene supported with 2 for 9 in 3 overs, while Nakisuuyi and Ariokot maintained control with disciplined spells.
Uganda’s composure under pressure ensured a winning start to their campaign in a closely fought contest.
