Rwanda beat Mozambique by record 322 runs in U19 World Cup qualifier (Photos)

Rwanda’s Under-19 men’s cricket team made history on Sunday with the outstanding 322-run victory over Mozambique in their opening match of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Africa Division 2 Qualifiers.

The result was Rwanda’s biggest-ever run-margin victory in the competition and saw the young side produce a record team total, underlining their ambition to advance to the next stage of the World Cup qualifying process.

Rwanda won the toss and elected to bat first, putting Mozambique under early pressure with an impressive batting display.

They finished their first innings on 411 runs from 50 overs, losing five wickets.

Their strong total gave Mozambique a difficult target and provided Rwanda’s bowlers with a substantial advantage heading into the second innings.

Mozambique struggled to match Rwanda’s scoring rate and were eventually bowled out for just 89 runs in 27.2 overs, handing Rwanda a comprehensive 322-run victory.

The result marked an impressive start for head coach Kenneth Bugingo, who was taking charge of the national U19 side for the first time as head coach.

Bugingo praised his players for their performance but stressed that the team must maintain its focus as it pursues the bigger objective of securing qualification.

“We are happy with the result and the performance of the boys,” Bugingo said. “We have made history, but we have to preserve this achievement and remain focused until we secure qualification to the next stage. That is our main objective.”

Captain Jasper Nziza Karoro credited the victory to the players’ discipline and their commitment to executing the coach’s instructions.

He said the team’s ability to respect the game plan and work collectively was central to the commanding performance.

Elise Gihozo was named Player of the Match after producing an outstanding individual performance with the bat.

He scored 34 runs from 24 balls, including 3 fours and 1 sixes, helping Rwanda build the imposing total.

Elsewhere in the tournament, Uganda defeated Nigeria by five wickets.

Nigeria posted 176 all out in 45 overs before Uganda reached 178 for five in 38.2 overs to complete the chase.

In another match, Ghana defeated Sierra Leone by 130 runs.

Ghana scored 265 all out in 49 overs, while Sierra Leone were dismissed for 135 in 43 overs.

Actions continue tomorrow as Rwanda take on Sierra Leone in their next match at the IPRC Kigali International Cricket Ground. 

Nigeria will take on Ghana at the main Gahanga Stadium ground, while Uganda will meet Mozambique at the second ground at Gahanga International Stadium.

All three matches are scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m.

Photos