Blantyre, October 13, 2024 – Rwanda secured a thrilling 6-wicket victory over Malawi in the fifth and final T20I at the TCA Oval, winning the series 3-2. Oscar Manishimwe played a captain’s knock, scoring a match-winning 54 to guide Rwanda to a hard-fought victory in a low-scoring game.
Malawi Struggles to Build Momentum
After being sent in to bat by Rwanda, Malawi struggled to build partnerships and posted a modest total of 101 all out in their 20 overs. Captain Donnex Kansonkho fell early, managing only 2 runs before being dismissed by Muhammad Nadir. His brother, Gift Kansonkho, briefly gave Malawi hope with a quick 14 off 8 balls but was bowled by Ignace Ntirenganya.
Malawi’s middle order failed to capitalize, as Sami Sohail (13 off 19) and Aaftab Limdawala (9 off 9) were both dismissed cheaply. The lone bright spot in their batting was Phillip Zuze, who scored 21 off 27 balls but received little support from the lower order.
Rwanda’s bowlers were on top throughout the innings, with Israel Mugisha leading the way, taking 2 wickets for just 12 runs in his 4 overs, and Emile Rukiriza (1/15) also keeping things tight. Eric Kubwimana picked up 2 wickets at the death, wrapping up Malawi’s innings at 101.
Manishimwe’s Composed Half-Century Guides Rwanda Home
Chasing 102 to win, Rwanda’s innings got off to a rocky start. Didier Ndikubwimana (1 off 12) and Wilson Niyitanga (3 off 8) fell cheaply, leaving Rwanda at 38/2 after 7.2 overs. However, Oscar Manishimwe held firm at one end, anchoring the chase with a patient 54 off 54 balls, hitting six boundaries and a six.
Manishimwe’s calm and composed knock was supported by Daniel Gumyusenge, who contributed an important 29* off 36 balls, guiding Rwanda closer to the target. Though Yves Cyusa (1 off 3) fell in the 18th over, Clinton Rubagumya (7* off 6) stayed with Gumyusenge to see Rwanda home in 19.5 overs.
Malawi’s bowlers, particularly Suhail Vayani (1/12) and Aaftab Limdawala (1/16), tried to apply pressure, but they couldn’t defend the low total. Kelvin Thuchila also chipped in with 1/30, but it wasn’t enough to stop Rwanda from sealing the series victory.
Player of the Match: Oscar Manishimwe
For his outstanding half-century under pressure, Oscar Manishimwe was named Player of the Match. His steady knock ensured that Rwanda successfully chased down the target, leading them to a 3-2 series win.
Series Win for Rwanda
With this win, Rwanda clinched the five-match T20I series 3-2, bouncing back after Malawi’s comeback in the third and fourth games. Rwanda will be pleased with their overall performance, particularly with Manishimwe’s leadership and the all-round contributions from their bowling unit.
Match Summary:
Malawi: 101 all out in 20 overs (Phillip Zuze 21, Moazzam Baig 18; Israel Mugisha 2/12, Eric Kubwimana 2/17)
Rwanda: 102/4 in 19.5 overs (Oscar Manishimwe 54, Daniel Gumyusenge 29*; Suhail Vayani 1/12, Aaftab Limdawala 1/16)
Rwanda won by 6 wickets
Series: Rwanda won the series 3-2
