Celtic Cup (Today)
At 5:30pm
Uganda v Namibia
At 8pm
Zimbabwe v N. Ireland
At 10:30pm
Wales v Scotland
Uganda’s She Cranes begin their Celtic Cup campaign today in Glasgow carrying both excitement and an unexpected weight: they will take to the court without captain Racheal Nanyonga, whose visa delay has thrown a cloud over an otherwise upbeat camp.
The team touched down in Scotland on Monday and immediately settled into preparation mode, but Nanyonga’s absence has raised uncomfortable questions. It is rare almost unheard of for a national captain to miss an international assignment due to travel clearance issues, and the uncertainty around her journey has left supporters uneasy.
Still, the squad has refused to let the setback define their mood. Training sessions at the Emirates Arena have been crisp, purposeful, and filled with belief as the Ugandans gear up for their opening fixture against Namibia. The tournament’s round-robin format means consistency will determine the champion, making today’s match an early compass for the She Cranes’ ambitions.
Coach Rashid Mubiru faces his first real test of adaptability at the competition. He must craft a tactical setup without the calming influence of his skipper, but he remains optimistic. Mubiru insists the team is settled, united, and eager to prove their readiness on court.
With Nanyonga in doubt, experienced defender Lillian Ajio will lead the team, with the energetic Maggie Baagala providing additional leadership depth. Their presence softens the blow but does not erase the reality: Uganda will be navigating their most important opener without one of their most trusted anchors.
The stakes are undeniable. Uganda’s goal at the Celtic Cup is not just participation it is reclamation. Sixth place in the global netball hierarchy is within reach again, and the She Cranes know that anything short of a commanding performance against Namibia could complicate that mission.
Elsewhere in the competition, Zimbabwe face Northern Ireland in the day’s second matchup, while hosts Scotland take on the highest-ranked team in the tournament in the marquee evening fixture. But for Uganda, the story begins and could be shaped by how they respond to adversity from the very first whistle.
