Cricket: Ingenzi Defenders clinch RCA 50-over title after beating Imena Centurions

Ingenzi Defenders Cricket Team won their first RCA Elite Men’s League 50 Overs title after defeating Imena Centurions Cricket Team by 97 runs in the final at Gahanga International Cricket Stadium. 

The victory marks a major milestone for Ingenzi Defenders, who became the third different team to win the competition since its launch in 2024.

Imanzi Guardians won the inaugural edition in 2024, while Ingabo Titans claimed the 2025 title.

Ingenzi Defenders now add their name to the growing list of champions, underlining the rapid progress and increasing competitiveness of domestic cricket in Rwanda.

After winning the toss, Imena Cricket Team elected to bowl first in an attempt to restrict Ingenzi Defenders to a manageable total.

Their bowlers started strongly and consistently applied pressure throughout the innings, limiting scoring opportunities and forcing key breakthroughs at crucial moments.

Ingenzi Defenders were eventually bowled out for 198 runs in 46.4 overs during the first innings.

Despite losing wickets regularly, the side managed to build enough partnerships to post a competitive total on a pitch that offered support to both bowlers and batters.

Chasing 199 runs for victory, Imena Cricket Club struggled against a disciplined bowling attack from Ingenzi Defenders.

The pressure mounted early as wickets continued to fall at regular intervals, preventing Imena from building momentum in the chase.

Ingenzi’s bowlers delivered an outstanding performance, dismissing the entire Imena batting lineup for 102 runs in just 21 overs.

The emphatic 97-run victory sparked celebrations among players and supporters as Ingenzi Defenders secured the first major title in the club’s history.

The result represents a significant achievement for Ingenzi Defenders, reflecting years of investment in player development.

Winning the title not only strengthens the club’s reputation within Rwanda’s cricket community but also positions them among the country’s rising cricket powers.

Individual performances throughout the tournament also received recognition.

Orchide Tuyisenge was named Best Batter after scoring 130 runs and also received the award for hitting the most sixes in the tournament.

His impressive display came shortly after missing out on selection for the national team heading to Botswana, making his performance even more remarkable.

Didier Ndikubwimana earned the Best Fielder award, while Chancelier Nzabarinda was recognized as the tournament’s Best Bowler.

Martin Akayezu was crowned the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) following his consistent performances.

Ingabo Titans finished third, while Imanzi Guardians secured fourth place.

The RCA Elite Men’s League 50 Overs competition continues to play a key role in the growth of cricket in Rwanda by providing players with longer-format competitive experience.

Since replacing the traditional T20 league format, the tournament has contributed significantly to improving technical skills, match awareness, endurance, and overall player development.

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