Match Summary:
- Venue: Gahanga 2, Kigali
- Date: September 22, 2024
- Match: Rwanda vs Kenya
- Result: Rwanda won by 58 runs
In the opening match of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers 2024, Rwanda showcased their prowess with a commanding victory over Kenya, winning by 58 runs. The game, held at Gahanga Cricket Stadium, Kigali, set the tone for an exciting tournament with Rwanda’s bowlers dominating the contest.
Toss and First Innings:
Kenya won the toss and opted to field first, aiming to restrict Rwanda to a manageable total. Rwanda, however, posted a competitive score of 95/8 in their 20 overs, with significant contributions from Niyomuhoza Shakila (29 off 35 balls), Utagushimaninde Fanny (19 off 28 balls), and Shimwamana Rosette (18 off 19 balls). While Kenya’s bowlers, particularly Janet Makau (4-0-17-2), kept Rwanda under pressure, the hosts managed to reach a respectable score with calculated batting and timely boundaries.
- Rwanda’s Milestones:
- Rwanda reached their 50 runs in 11.1 overs with contributions from extras (6).
- The innings concluded at 95/8 after 20 overs, with Umuringa Sonia and Umutoni Chanceline at the crease.
Second Innings:
Kenya’s chase faltered early as Rwanda’s bowling attack tore through their lineup. Kenya was bowled out for 37 runs in just 13.1 overs, with only Marion Agoi managing to add a run to the scoreboard. Rwanda’s bowling unit was led by standout performances from Uwimana Ruth (3.1-0-6-4) and Shimwamana Rosette (3-1-3-2), who kept the Kenyan batters under constant pressure.
- Key Bowling Performances:
- Uwimana Ruth: 4 wickets for just 6 runs in 3.1 overs, with a phenomenal economy rate of 1.89.
- Shimwamana Rosette: Backed up her batting with 2 wickets for 3 runs in her 3 overs, maintaining an economy rate of 1.00.
Match Timeline:
- Start: The match commenced at 09:28 AM.
- Rwanda Innings Break: After 20 overs, Rwanda posted 95/8.
- Kenya’s Response: Kenya’s innings began at 11:07 AM but was quickly wrapped up, with the match ending at 12:02 PM after Kenya were bowled out for 37 runs in 13.1 overs.
Key Moments:
- Rwanda’s Resilience: Despite a modest total, Rwanda’s disciplined bowling and fielding efforts secured them a dominant victory.
- Kenya’s Collapse: Kenya struggled from the onset, losing wickets regularly and failing to build any substantial partnerships.
Best Performers:
- Rwanda Batters:
- Niyomuhoza Shakila: 29 (35 balls), strike rate of 82.86.
- Utagushimaninde Fanny: 19 (28 balls), strike rate of 67.86.
- Shimwamana Rosette: 18 (19 balls), strike rate of 94.74.
- Rwanda Bowlers:
- Uwimana Ruth: 4 wickets for 6 runs in 3.1 overs.
- Shimwamana Rosette: 2 wickets for 3 runs in 3 overs.
- Kenya Bowlers:
- Janet Makau: 2 wickets for 17 runs in 4 overs.
Conclusion:
Rwanda’s all-round performance in both batting and bowling proved too much for Kenya, giving the host nation a crucial win in the opening game. With this victory, Rwanda has made a strong statement as they aim for a spot in the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025. The tournament continues with high stakes, as each team strives to secure the coveted place in the global competition.
Stay tuned to the Rwanda Cricket Association website for more match updates, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights as the tournament unfolds!
