Cricket: Rwanda edge Vanuatu in thrilling ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy clash

Rwanda secured a narrow three-run victory over Vanuatu in a tense Match 11 encounter at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier, with the contest going down to the final deliveries at the Gahanga International Cricket Stadium.

Winning the toss, Rwanda elected to bat first, aiming to post a competitive total. 

The hosts put in a disciplined batting performance to score 133 runs for the loss of five wickets in their allotted 20 overs.

Vanuatu’s bowling unit showed resilience but struggled to fully contain Rwanda’s steady run flow.

In response, Vanuatu needed 134 runs to win. The chase proved intense and went down to the final over.

With two balls left, Vanuatu needed four runs to win, but Marie Diane Bimenyimana held firm, conceding no runs to secure Rwanda victory.

Vanuatu finished on 130 runs for the loss of three wickets, handing Rwanda a dramatic three-run win and a crucial boost in the standings.

Rwanda’s Merveille Uwase was named Player of the Match after an outstanding innings of 60 runs off 43 balls, anchoring her team’s total and proving decisive in the final outcome.

Elsewhere, the United States defeated Nepal by seven runs.

Nepal posted 86 runs for six wickets in their 20 overs, but the USA successfully chased down the target, scoring 89 runs in 11.5 overs while losing three wickets.

The tournament continues tomorrow, with Rwanda set to play Italy at 09:00 AM local time, while the United States will take on Vanuatu at 01:00 PM. Nepal will have a rest day.

The ongoing competition in Kigali forms part of the pathway towards global qualification, bringing together emerging cricket nations to compete for advancement on the international stage.

All matches are being hosted at the Gahanga International Cricket Stadium, Rwanda’s premier cricket venue.

Photos

• USA vs Nepal