Kabaddi Sport: The Gradiators Set Off to Kenya For World Cup Qualifier Tourney
The Uganda National Kabaddi teams for both men and Ladies (The Gradiators and She Gradiators) set off to Kenya by road for the Africa Kabaddi World Cup Qualifier tourney.
The national coach for the kabaddi team Ephraim Makubuya is brimming with hope and expectation for this tournament that is expected to have six teams.
A 30-man team head to Nairobi by road for the qualifiers where a place in the final guarantees qualification to next year’s World Cup expected either in India or Iran.
The eight-day event, booked at Kasarani Stadium indoor Arena, will kick off from July 29 to August 5, 2021.
The expected teams include hosts Kenya, South Africa, Rwanda, Zambia, Uganda and Burundi. Malawi, Lesotho, Namibia, Eswatini and Senegal could be denied by the travel hurdles brought about by Covid-19.
Kenya are pre-tournament favourites and the African title is theirs to lose. The hosts are the only African team to have graced the Kabaddi World Cup having taken part in the last two editions. They recently finished second in the Bangabandhu Cup International Kabaddi Tournament in Bangladesh.
But according to Makubuya it’s not going to be a smooth run for Africa’s number one and world’s ranked Kenya though Uganda is in second in Africa and yet to get world rankings.
“They will have to work very hard. We are at an equal footing with Kenya now and beating them will greatly boost our rankings,” Makubuya said.
Players are eager to have a bite at the cherry. National team captain Joel Machari, 27 an all-rounder, says qualifying for the World Cup is the main focus.
“I believe we are going to qualify. We have trained for over two months. But all will depend on the strategies of the coach,” Machari said.
He is among the experienced players on the team with others including Douglas Mulaalira, Isaac Kayiwa and Frank Kamoga.
Makubuya explained that a good performance guarantees great things for the players.
“There is no bigger motivation than qualifying for the World Cup. It will position the players at the best stage as we expect scouts who can secure them big teams. There are no friendlies in kabaddi and it is at such events that players can be spotted,” Makubuya said.
The women’s team ranked first in Africa have automatically qualified for the World Cup and will travel to Kenya for the East African Championship.
The national team is sponsored by the Indian Women’s Association, Bank of Baroda and National Council of Sports in conjunction with partners such as Rainbow Pavers and Tiles, Graphic Systems and ITWS.
Travelling Contingent:
Men – Joel Machari (Capt), Douglas Mulaalira, Isaac Kayiwa, Frank Kamoga, Fahad Kitaakule, Abbey Kiwalabye, Shafiq Katamba, Joseph Bbosa, Eric Ssengendo, Jimmy Ssengendo, Huzaifa kitaakula and Pius Musungu.
Women: Angella Nakaye (Capt), Nabillah Nakigudde, Olivia Nalubega, Deborah Nabatanzi, Shanita Najjemba, Linnet Kayaga, Aisha Namukovu, Dorothy Nagawa, Sarah Nampenja and Shamira Nakamya.