Blantyre, October 12, 2024 – Malawi bounced back in the third T20I of the series against Rwanda, securing a thrilling 5-run victory to keep their hopes alive in the five-match series. Kelvin Thuchila’s all-around performance earned him the Player of the Match award, and Malawi now trails Rwanda 2-1 in the series.
Malawi Posts a Challenging Total
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Malawi set a competitive total of 141/7 in their 20 overs. Captain Donnex Kansonkho provided a quick start, smashing 22 off just 13 balls, including five boundaries, before falling to Martin Akayezu. His opening partner, Gift Kansonkho, added a solid 23 off 21 balls, but Rwanda’s bowlers kept the pressure on.
The standout performer for Malawi was Sami Sohail, who anchored the innings with 31 off 32 balls, including two sixes. However, Malawi’s middle order struggled to accelerate as Yves Cyusa and Martin Akayezu dominated with the ball. Cyusa claimed 3 wickets for 28 runs, while Akayezu took 3 wickets for just 22 runs. Muhammad Nadir also bowled economically, taking 1 for 19 in his 4 overs. Despite these efforts, Malawi managed to reach 141, aided by 24 extras conceded by Rwanda.
Rwanda’s Chase Falters in the Final Overs
Chasing 142 for victory, Rwanda began their innings steadily, with Oscar Manishimwe (26 off 25) and Didier Ndikubwimana (15 off 21) adding 36 runs for the first wicket. However, Aaftab Limdawala made the breakthrough, dismissing both openers in quick succession.
Rwanda’s middle order struggled to keep the momentum going, but Daniel Gumyusenge played a crucial knock, smashing 41 off 30 balls, including three boundaries and two sixes. His aggressive approach put Rwanda in a promising position, but the Malawian bowlers fought back.
The game turned in Malawi’s favor when Kelvin Thuchila entered the attack. Thuchila’s spin proved decisive as he claimed 3 wickets, including the crucial wicket of Ignace Ntirenganya in the final over. Suhail Vayani also contributed with 2 wickets for 34 runs. As wickets tumbled, Rwanda fell short of the target, bowled out for 136 in 19.3 overs, just 6 runs shy of victory.
Player of the Match: Kelvin Thuchila
Kelvin Thuchila was named Player of the Match for his match-winning 3/8 in 1.3 overs. His late breakthroughs ensured that Malawi defended their total and remained in contention in the series.
Series Outlook
With this victory, Malawi keeps the five-match series alive, now trailing 2-1. Rwanda will look to bounce back in the fourth T20I to seal the series, while Malawi will aim to build on this momentum and level the series.
Match Summary:
Malawi: 141/7 in 20 overs (Sami Sohail 31, Donnex Kansonkho 22, Gift Kansonkho 23; Martin Akayezu 3/22, Yves Cyusa 3/28)
Rwanda: 136 all out in 19.3 overs (Daniel Gumyusenge 41, Oscar Manishimwe 26; Kelvin Thuchila 3/8, Aaftab Limdawala 2/27)
Malawi won by 5 runs
Series: Rwanda leads 2-1
