Nuba joins She Cranes ahead of Commonwealth Games

Uganda netball star Mary Nuba has joined the She Cranes training camp ahead of the international test matches against South Africa and the 2026 Commonwealth Games, bringing valuable experience from Australia's elite netball competition.

Nuba, who plays for Australian club Queensland Firebirds, arrived in camp eager to reconnect with her teammates as preparations intensify for the Commonwealth Games, scheduled for July 23 to August 2.

"I have missed the girls, so it feels great to join them as we embark on preparations for the Commonwealth Games, which are not too far away," Nuba said. "I'm looking forward to being around the girls and giving them motivation."

Having spent the past season competing in one of the world's most competitive netball leagues with the Queensland Firebirds, Nuba believes the exposure has equipped her with valuable knowledge that could benefit the national team.

Mary Nuba alongside Linda Muzigo during training at Jeph international University Indoor Arena

"Netball has grown, and every year there is a new rule. The game has become much more physical and very fast. Coming from Australia and comparing the two levels, there is a big difference. My role is to share some of the experience I have gained with the girls and the coaches so that we can improve. Netball is evolving every day, and we just need to keep our minds open and continue learning," she explained.

Uganda heads into the Commonwealth Games determined to improve on its impressive fifth-place finish at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where the She Cranes produced one of their best performances on the global stage.

Nuba believes the team is capable of making history by reaching the medal rounds.

"If we can finish fourth or reach the semi-finals, we can absolutely do it. We believe in ourselves, and we trust the process. We shall go out there and give it our best," she said.

Her return has also been welcomed by Rashid Mubiru, who described the experienced shooter as a major addition to the squad.

"Every player was eager for Nuba to join the team, especially the shooters, so that they can build a better combination with the midfielders," Mubiru said. "Her experience and leadership will be very important as we prepare for the South Africa matches and the Commonwealth Games."

The upcoming tour to South Africa will provide the She Cranes with crucial high-level competition before they head to Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games.

The 2026 edition will mark Nuba's second appearance at the Commonwealth Games after she made her debut in Birmingham in 2022.

With the experience she has accumulated at the Queensland Firebirds and the confidence within the current squad, the She Cranes will be aiming to surpass their previous achievement and establish themselves among the world's top netball nations.