She Cranes defeated Barbados 53-33 in the warm up game
She Cranes defeated Barbados 53-33 in the warm up game

The She Cranes were counting 79-37 by the sound of the final whistle – confirming their superiority over Singapore – a side they had earlier in 2013 beaten twice 52-29 and 60-32 during the Nations’ Cup at their own backyard.

The group D World Cup encounter in Cape Town saw Uganda’s technical team push for changes in the team’s shooting line – benching Mary Nuba in the first two quarters for Haniisha Muhameed as was captain Irene Eyalu who gave way for Shadia Nassanga. 

And indeed Muhameed and Nassanga proved to be a danger onto their opponents – cooperating to put Uganda in a 42-19 lead by halftime. Nuba and Eyaru finished off the business – joining from the bench to make it 79-37.     

New Zealand had earlier started their title defence on a high – winning 76-27 over Trinidad & Tobago in a Group D game. Another simultaneous fixture saw at the same venue, Tonga emerging from an 11-16 down in the first quarter to beat Fiji 56-51 in a thrilling encounter. 

Uganda next plays defending champions – New Zealand this Saturday. The Netball World Cup 2023 takes place from July 28 to August 6.

Friday results

• Uganda 79-37 Singapore
• New Zealand 76-27 Trinidad & Tobago
• Tonga 56-51 Fiji
• Australia 86-30 Zimbabwe

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