Uganda name squad for World Cup qualifiers

A 14-year-old allrounder is one of three late changes to Uganda's squad for the World Cup qualifiers for the African nations in Kenya.

Isabella Kabugo joins Marble Kunihiira and Diana Musiime as replacements for Rebecca Akwenyu, Mary Nanderenga and Maureen Asaba, all of whom were on the provisional training squad.

The team manager, Jackson Kavuma, explained that Kabugo, Kunihiira - who is a businesswoman - and Musiime, a university student, were selected on all-round capabilities, enthusiasm, discipline and commitment shown during training and trials.

Belinda Nakiganda was confirmed as captain, while Carol Namugenyi will take on the vice-captain's mantle.

The team, coached by former national opener Charles Lwanga, will leave for Nairobi on Thursday, December 7. Uganda, the reigning regional champions, are strong favourites to progress to the next World Cup in Australia. They will tussle it out with Zimbabwe, Kenya and Tanzania for the lone slot to join automatic qualifiers South Africa as the continent's representatives in 2009.

Squad Isabella Kabugo, Marble Kunihiira, Diana Musiime, Belinda Nakiganda (capt), Frankline Najjumba, Mackenzie Ayato, Lydia Namirimo, Naome Kayondo, Jackie Nakitto, Stella Atim, Christine Aryemo and Justine Musubika.