Cricket takes center stage in Uganda this July as the Pearl of Africa T20 Series brings together five competitive teams for an international showdown at the scenic Entebbe Cricket Oval.
By: Kayiira Jackson
Uganda to host the Pearl of Africa T20 Series, a tournament set as a precursor for the T20 Cricket World Cup qualifiers to commence in September this year.
Cricket takes center stage in Uganda this July as the Pearl of Africa T20 Series brings together five competitive teams for an international showdown at the scenic Entebbe Cricket Oval.
Running from July 16 to 28, the tournament will feature hosts Uganda, alongside Kenya, Namibia A, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Kuwait.
Packed with experienced players and emerging talent, the series promises thrilling cricket and a celebration of regional unity.
The format includes a single round-robin, followed by playoff matches and a final on Sunday, July 27.
Speaking at the launch, Adonia Waibal, chair of the Local Organising Committee, described the tournament as “the start of an annual event to attract top teams from the region and beyond.”
Waibal also asserted that the fans are to get world class experience.
“I would like to invite all the cricket fans and the lovers of the good times, we have partnered with Hisence Uganda, Pepsi to make sure that we give our fans some prizes to be won and also give our fans a very exciting experience.
Uganda Cricket Association (UCA) Chairman Jackson Kavuma credited former UCA boss Bashir Magu for building ties with the Emirates Cricket Board, paving the way for UAE’s participation.
Kavuma also welcomed Kuwait’s involvement, noting their rising T20 ranking at 24th, just two spots behind Uganda. “They’ve watched our rise and want to challenge themselves,” he said.
Coaches Set Their Sights on Development
Uganda head coach Abhay Sharma said the tournament will help test player combinations and deepen the squad.
“It’s about more than results, we want to give players a chance to grow,” he said
The series kicks off on Friday, July 18 with Uganda taking on Kenya, and Namibia A facing UAE.
Matches will be played in morning and afternoon slots, with rest days on July 21 and 25. Playoff matches are set for July 24 and 26, leading to the final.
All games will be held at the Entebbe Cricket Oval, known for its stunning lakeside setting, an ideal backdrop for what organizers hope becomes a regular feature on the international calendar.
PEARL OF AFRICA T20 SERIES Fixtures and Programme:
Friday, 18 July:
Uganda UG vs Kenya
Namibia A vs UAE
Saturday, 19 July
Kuwait KW vs Kenya
Uganda UG vs Namibia A
Sunday, 20 July
Kuwait KW vs Namibia A
Uganda vs UAE
Monday, 21 July | Rest Day
Tuesday, 22 July
UAE vs Kuwait
Kenya vs Namibia A
Wednesday, 23 July
Kenya vs UAE
Uganda vs Kuwait
Thursday, 24 July: Eliminator: (3rd vs 4th) | Qualifier: (1st vs 2nd)
Friday, 25 July | Rest Day
Saturday, 26 July: Loser Eliminator vs 5th Placed Team | Qualifier 2: Loser Qualifier 1 vs Winner Eliminator
Sunday, 27 July | Final: Winner Qualifier 1 vs Winner Qualifier 2
