Battle of the Best as Uganda Rugby Reaches Cup Final

By Mugisa Francis

Battle of the Best as Uganda Rugby Reaches Cup Final

Both the Black Pirates and the Heathens enter this weekend’s Uganda Rugby Cup final with perfect records, having won all six of their matches on the road to the showdown. Although the teams appear evenly matched on paper, Pirates go into the clash as slight favourites.

The final comes at the end of an intense and packed rugby season, offering a perfect moment to reflect on the players and teams that defined the 2025 campaign.

Following their Nile Special Premiership title earlier this year, Pirates have carried the same intensity into the Uganda Cup. A major strength behind their run has been their powerful forward pack, which has dominated opponents throughout the competition.

The emergence of young props such as Alvin Rukundo and Ariho Muhumuza has strengthened squad depth and given Pirates more tactical options. This has also allowed experienced players like Frank Kidega and Alex Aturinda to operate at their best. Both players have been central to Pirates’ gameplay through strong ball carries and solid defensive work. Their influence has been further enhanced by the presence of Sydney Gongodyo, who has added versatility in the lock and flanker roles.

Their consistent performances earned national team call-ups during the Rugby Africa Cup in July, and it comes as little surprise that members of this group are now considered strong contenders for individual awards. Aturinda, in particular, has been among the most consistent performers in both the 15s and 7s formats this year.

Elsewhere, Kobs have found value in the signing of Andrew Odhiambo, whose performances have justified the club’s decision to bring him in from Jinja Hippos. The flanker has been a reliable ball carrier and has filled the gap left by departed forwards, working closely with team captain Simon Makumbi to strengthen Kobs’ forward pack.

Kobs have also benefited from the accuracy of Joseph Aredo, whose kicking success rate has been outstanding this season. His contributions extended to the national team, where he impressed despite playing a less central role.

Jinja Hippos have endured a difficult year marked by administrative challenges, which affected their league and sevens campaigns. However, their front-row pairing of Fahad Maidoo and James Okello stood out, forming one of the strongest packs in the country. Fly-half Yasin Waiswa also had a remarkable season, combining accurate goal-kicking with creative passing to earn national team recognition.

Heathens may have fallen short in the league, exiting in the semi-finals to Pirates, but they uncovered exciting talent. Hooker Sylvester Munguachel impressed with his throwing accuracy and physical presence, while the steady rise of Julius Oyuk added strength to their squad.

Buffaloes Rugby Club continued their steady progress and proved they can challenge established sides. Their competitiveness was largely driven by the half-back partnership of Liam Walker and Humphrey Ndahura, with Daniel Otim and Fatmose Watmon providing a strong finishing edge.

In the women’s game, Thunderbirds mounted a dramatic resurgence, emerging as serious contenders after several quiet seasons. They pushed the Black Pearls to the limit in the league final, narrowly losing on aggregate. Key players such as Samiya Ayikoru, Yvonne Najjuma, Comfort Angayika and Janat Nandudu played leading roles in the team’s revival under coach Kigongo Ssebalamu.

Thunderbirds also claimed the women’s Sevens title and dominated national team selections. Despite this, other teams still produced standout performers. Bushira Namutebi and Lydia Namabiro impressed for the Black Pearls, while Fazira Namukwaya and Maimuna Nassozi carried the Avengers through a difficult season.

Nile Rapids found a leader in Tina Akello, who inspired her side to a dramatic semi-final victory over the Avengers. Her team now head into the women’s Uganda Cup final as strong favourites against the She Wolves from Mbale.