The ninth fixture of the ICC Women’s T20I Challenge Trophy 2026 features Nepal Women facing Vanuatu Women in a crucial group-stage match. Nepal Women currently sit mid-table, showcasing a mix of experienced players and emerging talent with solid bowling and batting performances. They aim to strengthen their standings with a consistent showing.
In contrast, the Vanuatu Women are struggling for momentum, positioned lower on the points table with a poor Net Run Rate. Despite some positive signs in their bowling, they need a win to keep their chances alive in the tournament. This encounter promises strategic battles and individual brilliance, making it a must-watch for fans of women’s cricket as Nepal seeks to consolidate and Vanuatu fights for revival.
Squads:
Vanuatu Women’s Cricket Team
Alvina Chilia, Susan Stephen, Valenta Langiatu, Anna Griffin, Melissa Fare, Nasimana Navaika, Natalia Kakor, Rachel Andrew, Selina Solman, Gillian Chilia, Mahina Tarimiala, Rayline Ova, Vanessa Vira, Vicky Mansale
Nepal Women’s Cricket Team
Indu Barma (C), Puja Mahato (VC), Bindu Rawal, Samjhana Khadka, Rubi Poddar, Kabita Joshi, Kabita Kunwar, Riya Sharma, Roma Thapa, Suman Bist, Anu Kadayat, Manisha Upadhyaya, Rubina Chhetri, Rachana Chaudhary
Players to watch out:
Rubina Chhetry
The experienced skipper of Nepal Women continues to be the backbone of the team. She has played 86 matches and scored 1026 runs in 76 innings, along with one century and one half-century. Her ability to anchor the innings while rotating strike efficiently makes her a crucial figure at the top. She has also scalped 55 wickets with the best figures of 4/2. Along with her batting and bowling prowess, her leadership and tactical awareness often play a decisive role in tight situations.
Indu Barma
A dependable all-rounder, Indu Barma adds immense value with both bat and ball. Indu has scored 1092 runs in 78 innings along with one half- century. Her best score in WT20Is is 55*. She has picked up 40 wickets in 46 innings in 85 matches with best figures of 3/5. Her knack for breaking partnerships and contributing handy runs in the middle order makes her one of Nepal’s most reliable performers in the tournament.
Vanessa Vira
One of the standout performers for Vanuatu, Vanessa has impressed with her disciplined bowling. Vanessa has picked up 39 wickets in 31 innings with an average of 10.89 and an economy rate of 4.04. Her best figures in the format are 3/8. Her ability to maintain tight lines and pick up crucial wickets makes her a key threat, especially against a structured batting unit like Nepal.
Susan Stephen
A stabilising presence in the Vanuatu batting lineup, Susan’s role will be critical in building partnerships. Susan has scored 115 runs in 13 innings. Her best score in the WT20Is is 23. Her composed approach can help Vanuatu recover from early setbacks and post a competitive total.
Pitch:
The Gahanga Ground in Kigali features a well-maintained Bermuda grass surface that has historically favoured bowlers, especially seamers. Batters will need to exercise caution and build their innings steadily, particularly in the early overs when conditions can assist bowlers. Teams winning the toss may choose to bowl first to take advantage of the overcast skies.
Weather:
The forecast indicates cloudy conditions with a possibility of brief light rain. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain around 22°C, creating a fairly pleasant environment for cricket. However, the moisture in the air could benefit swing bowlers.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Alvina Chilia, Susan Stephen, Rachel Andrew, Vanessa Vira, Vicky Mansale, Rubina Chhetry, Indu Barma, Rubi Poddar, Kabita Kunwar, Puja Mahato, Roma Thapa
Match Details:
Date – April 24, 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.
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