As we approach the business end of the ICC Women’s T20I Challenge Trophy 2026, the table has tightened up significantly, making every result crucial. Rwanda currently occupies the second spot with four points from their four matches, holding a positive Net Run Rate of +0.347. They are lead a pack of three teams all tied on points, making this match a must-win to separate themselves from the field. Vanuatu, meanwhile, finds themselves at the bottom of the pile with just two points. However, they come into this fixture with renewed energy after finally breaking their losing streak in their last outing, proving they can be a dangerous side when they find their rhythm.
Squads:
Rwanda Women’s Cricket Team
Marie Bimenyimana (C), Alice Ikuzwe, Flora Irakoze, Rosine Irera, Gisele Ishimwe, Henriette Ishimwe, Belise Murekatete, Shakila Niyomuhoza, Rosette Shimwamana, Clarrisse Umutoniwase, Fanny Utagushimaninde, Geovanis Uwase, Merveille Uwase (WK), Ruth Uwimana
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
Players to watch out:
Gisele Ishimwe
Gisele Ishimwe has been a steady presence at the crease for Rwanda, consistently finding ways to keep the scoreboard ticking. In her four outings this year, she has accumulated 77 runs with the best of 42, showing she can anchor an innings when the pressure is on. Her strike rate of 113.23 suggests she isn’t afraid to take on the bowlers, and with 10 boundaries already to her name, she remains a vital cog in Rwanda’s batting blueprint.
Selina Solman
A dependable figure for Vanuatu, Selina Solman has shown great composure in the middle order. She has managed 65 runs across four matches, often fighting through tough spells to post a respectable high score of 40. While her strike rate sits at 79.26, her ability to stay not out in key moments proves her value as a finisher who prioritizes stability and survival for her team.
Henriette Ishimwe
Henriette Ishimwe continues to be a threat with the ball, providing Rwanda with much-needed breakthroughs in the middle overs. She has picked up 5 wickets in four games, maintaining a disciplined economy rate of 4.57. Her best figures of 2/18 highlight her knack for taking wickets at crucial junctures, making her one of the most reliable bowling options for her captain.
Vanessa Vira
Vanessa Vira has been absolutely clinical for Vanuatu, emerging as the standout bowler of the tournament so far. With a staggering 10 wickets in just four matches, including a dominant spell of 3/8, she has made life miserable for opposing batters. What makes her even more dangerous is her incredible economy of 3.03, ensuring that she not only takes wickets but also completely dries up the runs.
Pitch:
The Gahanga B Ground in Kigali is known for its Bermuda Grass pitch, which provides a modern, professional surface typical of international standard venues. The track has generally favored bowlers; statistics from the venue show a significant edge for seamers, who have historically accounted for over 70% of wickets in women’s T20Is here.
Weather:
Expect scattered thunderstorms during the day and cloudy skies at night, with a high of 22°C, a low of 15°C, and a 65% chance of rain.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Marie Bimenyimana, Alice Ikuzwe, Gisele Ishimwe, Henriette Ishimwe, Fanny Utagushimaninde, Ruth Uwimana, Alvina Chilia, Rachel Andrew, Selina Solman, Vanessa Vira, Vicky Mansale
Match Details:
Date – April 26, 2026
Time – 12:30 PM IST
Venue – Gahanga B Ground, Rwanda
Broadcast – The game will be live-streamed on the FanCode app and website.
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