Uganda’s Victoria Pearls’ World Cup dreams dashed in thrilling semi-final loss

The Victoria Pearls’ hopes of reaching the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier were crushed in a thrilling semi-final match against Zimbabwe at the Namibia Cricket Ground.

Despite putting up a respectable total of 119/7 in 20 overs, Uganda fell short as Zimbabwe chased down the target with ease, reaching 120/5 in 17.4 overs.

The Pearls struggled to accelerate, thanks to Zimbabwe’s disciplined bowling.

Nyasha Gwanzura was the star of the show for Zimbabwe, smashing two towering sixes in her quickfire 17 off six balls, earning her the Player of the Match award.

In the other semi-final, hosts Namibia defeated Tanzania by eight wickets, booking their spot in the final against Zimbabwe.

Both teams have secured spots in the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier.

The Global Qualifier will feature 10 teams:

– Zimbabwe

– Namibia

– Netherlands

– Ireland

– Scotland

– Bangladesh

– United States

– Nepal

– Thailand

– East-Asia Pacific Qualifier winner

Only the top four teams will advance to the 2026 World Cup in England.

The Victoria Pearls will face Tanzania in the third-place playoff on Friday at the Namibia Cricket Ground, seeking to salvage some pride after their exit from the tournament.

The match details are as follows:

– Third-place playoff: Uganda vs Tanzania, Friday, Namibia Cricket Ground

– Final: Zimbabwe vs Namibia, Friday, Namibia Cricket Ground [1]