Match 1 of the ICC Women’s T20I Challenge Trophy 2026 marks the beginning of an exciting contest as hosts Rwanda Women face off against Italy Women on April 18, 2026. As the tournament kicks off in Rwanda, the hosts aim to capitalize on familiar conditions, while Italy Women arrive eager to establish themselves and make a strong opening statement. With both teams seeking a positive start, this clash sets the tone for what promises to be a competitive tournament.
As this is the opening game, both sides are likely to adopt a cautious approach at the start, gradually feeling their way into the tournament. However, as the innings progress, expect both teams to play with intent, particularly players eager to make their mark. Rwanda Women will aim to control the tempo with structured bowling plans and calculated batting, while Italy Women will seek to disrupt that rhythm with fearless stroke play and sharp fielding.
Squads:
Rwanda Women’s Cricket Team
Diane Bimenyimana, Fanny Itagushimaninde, Gisele Ishimwe, Clarisse Umutoniwase, Shakila Niyomuhoza, Henriette Ishimwe, Alice Ikuzwe, Belyse Murekatete, Geovanis Uwase, Rosine Irera, Rosette Shimwamana, Flora Irakoze, Merveille Uwase, Ruth Uwimana
Italy Women’s Cricket Team
Emilia Bartram (C), Dilaisha Nanayakkara (VC), Teshani Araliya, Nimesha Ekanayake, Ishara Jayamannage, Pasindi Kanankege, Alexia Kontopirakis, Chathurika Mahamalage, Sadalee Malwatta, Emma Moore, Kumudu Peddrick,, Amaya Rajapaksha, Methnara Rathnayake (WK), Ilenia Sims, Sonia Toffoletto
Players to watch out:
Gisele Ishimwe
A key figure for Rwanda Women, Ishimwe’s ability to anchor the innings makes her a dependable presence at the top. She has scored 1709 runs in 97 innings with an average of 19.64. She has scored one century and two half-centuries in the WT20Is and also has 14 wickets to her name. Her experience in handling pressure situations and rotating strikes efficiently will be crucial in setting a solid foundation.
Henriette Ishimwe
One of Rwanda’s most promising all-rounders, Henriette Ishimwe, plays a vital role with both bat and ball. She has scored 1321 runs with the best figure of 67* and picked up 146 wickets with the best figures of 5/6 in the WT20Is. Her knack for picking wickets at crucial intervals, combined with her ability to accelerate the scoring rate, makes her a game-changer in the shortest format.
Emilia Bartram
For Italy Women, Emilia Bartram stands out as a reliable batter capable of holding the innings together. She has scored 511 runs in 32 innings, along with two half-centuries. She has picked up 24 wickets with the best bowling figures of 3/6 in WT20Is. Her technique and temperament will be key, especially against Rwanda’s disciplined bowling attack.
Chathurika Mahamalage
A talented all-rounder, Chathurika Mahamalage adds balance to the Italian lineup. Her ability to contribute with handy runs and deliver breakthroughs with the ball makes her an important player, particularly in the middle overs. She has scalped 41 wickets and scored 552 runs for Italy.
Pitch:
The pitch in Rwanda is anticipated to provide a fair contest between bat and ball. Early in the innings, seam bowlers may benefit from some movement off the surface, making the powerplay phase critical for both teams. As the match progresses, the pitch is likely to slow down, bringing spinners into play and making scoring runs more difficult.
Weather:
The weather is expected to be partly cloudy, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 25°C. There is a slight chance of rain, which could disrupt team strategies, especially regarding batting first or chasing.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Marie Ange Mukundwa, Gisele Ishimwe, Henriette Ishimwe, Sarah Uwera, Emilia Bartram, Dilaisha Nanayakkara, Chathurika Mahamalage, Sadalee Malwatta, Flora Irakoze, Merveille Uwase, Sonia Toffoletto
Match Details:
Date – April 18, 2026
Time – 12:30 PM IST
Venue – Gahanga International Cricket Stadium, Rwanda
Broadcast – The game will be live-streamed on the FanCode app and website.
Loves all things female cricket