Blantyre, October 9, 2024 – Rwanda cruised to a comfortable victory against Malawi in the first T20I of the series at the TCA Oval, Blantyre, thanks to a brilliant bowling performance led by Emile Rukiriza and a calm chase led by Didier Ndikubwimana. The win gives Rwanda a 1-0 lead in the five-match series, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting competition.
Malawi’s Struggles with the Bat
After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Malawi found themselves in trouble early on. Captain Donnex Kansonkho started brightly, scoring 11 off 9 balls, but his dismissal, along with the early fall of his brother Gift Kansonkho, left Malawi struggling at 22/2 in the 5th over.
The Rwandan bowling attack, spearheaded by Emile Rukiriza, caused continuous damage. Rukiriza was virtually unplayable, taking an exceptional 5-wicket haul for just 11 runs in his 4 overs. His precise line and length dismantled Malawi’s middle order, with key wickets like Sami Sohail and Aaftab Limdawala falling cheaply.
Only Mike Choamba and Sami Sohail showed some resistance, scoring 16 and 17 respectively, but Malawi’s innings never gained momentum, finishing at a meager 88 all out in 19.4 overs. Martin Akayezu also contributed with 3 wickets for just 6 runs in 2.4 overs, ensuring Malawi’s struggles throughout the innings.
Rwanda’s Controlled Chase
Chasing 89 for victory, Rwanda took a measured approach to the low target. Despite losing Oscar Manishimwe early for 11, Didier Ndikubwimana anchored the innings with a well-paced 40* off 43 balls, showcasing his experience and maturity at the crease.
Alongside him, debutant Daniel Gumyusenge played a confident knock, finishing unbeaten on 21 off 20 balls to guide Rwanda to the target in 16 overs with 8 wickets in hand. Wilson Niyitanga also chipped in with 10 runs before falling to Bright Balala.
Malawi’s bowlers couldn’t replicate Rwanda’s success, with Blessings Pondani and Bright Balala taking a wicket each, but it wasn’t enough to put pressure on the Rwandan batters.
Player of the Match: Emile Rukiriza
Unsurprisingly, Emile Rukiriza was named Player of the Match for his outstanding 5/11, which dismantled Malawi’s batting lineup. His performance set up an easy chase for Rwanda and demonstrated his potential as a game-changer for the team in the series.
Rwanda Takes Series Lead
With this convincing win, Rwanda now leads the five-match series 1-0. The team will be eager to carry this momentum forward into the remaining matches, while Malawi will need to regroup and address their batting frailties.
Stay tuned as the second T20I between these two sides promises more thrilling action!
Match Summary:
Malawi: 88 all out in 19.4 overs (Sami Sohail 17, Mike Choamba 16; Emile Rukiriza 5/11, Martin Akayezu 3/6)
Rwanda: 89/2 in 16 overs (Didier Ndikubwimana 40*, Daniel Gumyusenge 21*; Blessings Pondani 1/9, Bright Balala 1/19)
Rwanda won by 8 wickets
Series: Rwanda leads 1-0
