The national cricket team continued their impressive form in the ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy after securing their second consercutive victory after a heart stopping one-run win over the United States contest at the Gahanga Cricket Stadium, Kigali.
The result sends a strong message in the tournament, as Rwanda moves to the top of the table following a defensive masterclass in the final over.
The host was pushed to the limit, but Captain Diane Bimenyimana delivered in the decisive moment, holding her nerve on the final ball to seal a dramatic win and push Rwanda to the top of the table.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, the hosts posted a competitive 127/8 in their allotted 20 overs. The foundation was laid by an exceptional 77-run opening partnership between Gisele Ishimwe (42) and the clinical Fanny Utagushimaninde (32).
The American chase looked shaky early on following the cheap dismissals of Chetna Pagydyala and Pooja Ganesh. However, a late-innings resurgence led by Gargi Bhogle (35) and Ritu Singh (26) brought the USA within striking distance.
The Decisive Moment: With the USA needing three runs off the final ball, Rwanda Captain Diane Bimenyimana displayed veteran composure, restricting the batters to just one run and sealing a famous victory for the home side.
Gisele Ishimwe was named player of the match for her 42 runs off just 34 balls.
In the day’s other high-stakes encounter, Italy pulled off a heist at the Gahanga Main Oval, defeating Vanuatu by four wickets.
Despite a disciplined Italian attack, Vanuatu posted 114/6, anchored by Nasimana Navaika’s 36.
Italy’s chase looked dead in the water after losing early wickets, but Ilenia Sims played a Player of the Match innings, smashing an unbeaten 61 off 52 balls (9 fours) to carry her side across the line.
Match Summaries
Rwanda Vs USA
Rwanda Women: 127/4 in 20 overs
USA Women: 126/5 in 20 overs
Rwanda Women won by 1 run
Italy vs Vanuatu
Vanuatu: 114/6
Itarly: 115/6
Italy Women won by 4 wickets
