Uganda’s national netball team, the She Cranes, has started it’s quest for a respectable finish at the 2026 Commonwealth Games with a resounding 59-50 victory over Wales at the Hydro in Glasgow, Scotland.

In a very surprising move, Head Coach Rashid Mubiru benched regular goal shooter Mary Cholhok Nuba and centre player Margaret Baagala whose positions were taken by debutants Alice Isoto and Joan Ryekoboth respectively.

The team started strong and took a 15-13 first quarter lead, but by half time they had lost it as they trailed 31-28.

A few alterations changed the game when Nuba and Baagala came on in the second quarter, with Uganda going into the fourth quarter leading 45-39; they held on for a 59-50 opening victory.

“I think the defensive combination of Gloria Ayaa and Shaffie won us the game,” said Coach Mubiru.

The team returns to action on Sunday against Trinidad and Tobago. 

*Starting 7* 

Alice Isoto – Goal Shooter

Shadiah Nassanga – Goal Attacker

Rachel Nanyonga – Wing Defender

Joan Ryekoboth – Centre

Nasimu Mutesi – Wing Defender

Gloria Ayaa – Goal Defender

Shaffie Nalwanja – Goal Keeper

 

 *Group B* 

New Zealand

Jamaica

Wales

Uganda

Scotland

Trinidad & Tobago