Rain interruptions failed to dampen an eventful opening day of the ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy in Kigali, where Italy secured a 16-run win over hosts Rwanda under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method.
The match, played on Saturday at Gahanga Cricket Stadium, was cut short by rain in the 11th over with Italy on 72 after opting to bat first.
After the delay, the contest was reduced to seven overs per side, leaving Rwanda with a revised target of 67.
The hosts never quite found their rhythm in the chase. Italy’s disciplined bowling kept the pressure on throughout, making it difficult for Rwanda to build any momentum.
Backed by home support, Rwanda managed 50 runs but lost key wickets at crucial moments. Gisele Ishimwe, Fanny Utagushimaninde, Alice Ikuzwe and Clarisse Uwase all fell before they could steady the innings.
Italy’s Alexia Kontopirakis proved decisive, scoring 45 runs and contributing in the field with two catches to earn Player of the Match.
It was a disappointing start for Rwanda, who will look to respond when they face Vanuatu on Sunday morning at Gahanga B Oval.
USA upset Nepal
Elsewhere, the United States produced one of the standout results of the day, beating pre-tournament favourites Nepal by 40 runs.
The match, widely seen as one of the key fixtures of the opening round, quickly swung in favour of the Americans.
Batting first, the USA posted 123 for 6 in their 20 overs before restricting Nepal to 83 for 9.
Pooja Ganesh led the charge with 47 runs, while Gargi Bhogle added 34 in a strong batting display.
Nepal struggled to respond and will now look to recover when they face Italy in their next match.
Fixtures
Rwanda face Vanuatu at 9:00 AM, followed by Italy against Nepal at 1:00 PM, both at Gahanga B Oval.
