Cricket: Rwanda skipper eye strong start against Italy in Challenge Trophy opener

Rwanda is set to make history as it hosts the inaugural ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy 2026, scheduled to take place from April 18 to May 1, 2026.

The tournament marks a significant milestone in the growth and development of women’s cricket among emerging cricket nations.

The host nation will open the competition against Italy in a highly anticipated curtain-raiser at the Gahanga International Cricket Stadium in Kigali this Saturday, April 18 at 9:00 a.m.

Ahead of the opening match, Rwanda Women’s National Team Captain, Bimenyimana Diane, expressed confidence in her team’s readiness and determination to represent the country with pride.

“We call upon all Rwandans to come and support us, especially in our opening match against Italy this Saturday. Opening games are never easy, but we are well prepared,” she said during a pre-tournament press conference held on this Friday, April 17.

Head Coach Leonard Nhamburo reaffirmed the team’s ambition, emphasizing the team’s ambition to compete strongly despite facing higher-ranked opponents.

He also commended the Rwanda Cricket Association (RCA) for its continued support, highlighting the importance of international exposure gained including the Nigeria Women’s Invitational T20i 2026 in strengthening the squad.

The tournament, organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC), brings together Associate Member nations including Rwanda, Italy, Nepal, the United States, and Vanuatu. 

It is designed to provide increased international match experience, enhance performance standards, and create pathways to higher-level ICC competitions.

The competition will follow a round-robin format, with each team playing home-and-away fixtures.

The top-performing teams will advance to the final, offering an opportunity to progress toward global qualifying events.

RCA General Manager, Byiringiro Emmanuel emphasized the significance of hosting the tournament, describing it as both an honor and a testament to Rwanda’s growing capacity to stage international sporting events.

“Hosting this tournament is a great honor for us. The fact that this is the first edition and that it will be held in Rwanda reflects the trust the ICC has in our ability to organize international competitions. The tournament presents a valuable opportunity for the national team to measure its progress and compete at a higher level,” he added. 

Nepal enters the competition as the highest-ranked side, followed by the United States, Vanuatu, Italy, and Rwanda.

Despite the rankings, the Rwandan team remains optimistic.

The team’s recent performances in Nigeria have boosted morale, with players and technical staff expressing belief in their ability to challenge stronger opponents and potentially secure the title.

Entry to all matches will be free of charge, with organizers encouraging the public to attend and support the national team throughout the tournament.

Beyond the competition, the ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy 2026 is expected to showcase emerging talent and further elevate the profile of women’s cricket in Rwanda and across participating nations.

The event also reinforces Rwanda’s position as an emerging hub for international sports and a committed supporter of women’s development in athletics.

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• Nepal

• USA

• Rwanda

RCA General Manager, Byiringiro Emmanuel.