In a captivating display of skill, determination, and teamwork, Rwanda Women emerged victorious in the Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament. Over the course of a thrilling campaign, the Rwandan team showcased their mettle, dominating their opponents and etching their name in the annals of women’s cricket. Led by the inspirational Marie Bimenyimana, Rwanda Women demonstrated their prowess, claiming a well-deserved tournament win.
Rwanda Women began their campaign with an emphatic victory over Botswana Women. Batting first, Rwanda set a competitive total of 66 runs. Marie Bimenyimana and Belise Murekatete played crucial roles, with scores of 19 and 10, respectively. The bowling duo of Rosine Irera and Belise Murekatete wreaked havoc, restricting Botswana to a paltry 46 runs. Their exceptional performances set the tone for the team’s resolute journey.
Rwanda Women continued their winning streak in a nail-biting encounter against Nigeria Women. Displaying nerves of steel, Gisele Ishimwe and Clarisse Uwase led the batting charge, propelling Rwanda to a competitive total of 87 runs. The bowlers, Immaculee Muhawenimana and Margueritte Vumiliya showcased their skills, but Nigeria Women fought valiantly. In the end, Rwanda fell just short as Nigeria clinched victory with only two balls to spare.
9th Edition of Kwibuka Women's T20 goes to Rwanda after they beat Uganda by 6 Wickets.
🇺🇬 Uganda: 65/10 (20)
🇷🇼 Rwanda: 66/4 (16.4)#CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/JM3udJV5mC— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) June 18, 2023
Kenya Women felt the brunt of Rwanda’s dominance in a one-sided affair. Batting first, Kenya set a target of 91 runs, with Venasa Ooko top-scoring with 30 runs. However, Rwanda’s response was resolute, led by exceptional innings from Henriette Ishimwe, who fell agonizingly short of a half-century. Supported by Gisele Ishimwe, Rwanda Women secured a comfortable victory with 25 balls to spare.
In a fiercely contested encounter, Rwanda Women faced Uganda Women, showcasing their ability to compete against strong opponents. Gisele Ishimwe’s composed innings of 33 runs, alongside Margueritte Vumiliya’s bowling efforts, ensured a competitive total of 80 runs for Rwanda. However, Uganda’s Kevin Awino and Janet Mbabazi posed a significant challenge. Despite their efforts, Rwanda’s bowlers held their nerve, restricting Uganda to 84 runs and securing a crucial victory.
In a fitting finale, Rwanda Women faced Uganda Women once again, this time vying for the tournament title. Rwanda, bowling first, were set a target of 66 runs, anchored by Merveille Uwase’s resilient innings of 17 runs. Henriette Ishimwe’s outstanding bowling display, claiming four wickets for just six runs, proved pivotal in dismantling Uganda’s batting order. With Gisele Ishimwe’s steady contribution, Rwanda Women triumphed with ease, claiming the title.
Rwanda Women’s resounding victory in the Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament exemplifies their growth, determination, and exceptional talent. Led admirably by Henriette Ishimwe, the team’s performance throughout the campaign was nothing short of extraordinary. Their ability to overcome challenges, exhibit exceptional skills, and maintain composure in crucial moments propelled them to the tournament victory. With this triumph, Rwanda Women have left an indelible mark on the cricketing landscape, inspiring future generations and raising the profile of women’s cricket in the country.
Sports have always been a huge part of my life, and having played cricket professionally for my state team, I gained a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in the world of sports. With an eye for detail and passion for sports, I’m hoping to make a lasting impact in the sports industry.