Hosts Rwanda have named a balanced and in-form squad for the inaugural ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy, set to be played from April 18 to May 1 at the Gahanga Cricket Stadium, as they look to capitalise on home conditions and recent momentum. The 14-member squad features a strong core of players who have contributed significantly to Rwanda’s steady rise in associate cricket. With a mix of experienced performers and emerging talent, the hosts will aim to make a deep run in a tournament designed to strengthen pathways for developing nations.
Rwanda’s Squad for ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy 2026:
Diane Bimenyimana, Belyse Murekatete, Fanny Utagushimaninde, Geovannis Uwase, Gisele Ishimwe, Rosine Irera, Clarisse Umutoniwase, Rosette Shimwamana, Shakila Niyomuhoza, Flora Irakoze, Henriette Ishimwe, Merveille Uwase, Alice Ikuzwe, Ruth Uwimana
Rwanda head into the competition on the back of a strong showing in the Nigeria Invitational Women’s T20I Tournament 2026, where they topped the points table in the group stage before finishing runners-up after a loss to Nigeria in the final. Despite falling short in the title clash, their overall performances underlined the team’s growing consistency.
One of the standout performers in that tournament was Fanny Utagushimaninde, who finished as the leading run-scorer with 132 runs, playing a key role at the top of the order. Already a record-holder in international cricket, she made headlines earlier in her career by becoming the youngest centurion in women’s T20Is at just 15 years and 223 days, while also becoming the first woman to score a century on T20I debut. Her form will be crucial once again as Rwanda look to set competitive totals in the Challenge Trophy.
Over the past year, Rwanda’s rise has been driven by a strong core of performers. Marie Bimenyimana has been one of the leading contributors with the bat, scoring 373 runs in 21 innings at an average of 21.94, making her the team’s top run-scorer in that period. She has also contributed with the ball, picking up 25 wickets at an average of 11.76, highlighting her value as an all-round option.
Another key figure is Henriette Ishimwe, who has established herself as one of the most impactful players in the squad. She has scored 295 runs in 19 innings at an average of 22.69, while also leading the bowling attack with 30 wickets in 21 innings at an outstanding average of 10.60.
Gisele Ishimwe has provided stability in the batting unit, scoring 261 runs in 11 innings at an average of 23.72, while Rosine Irera has been a reliable option with the ball, claiming 23 wickets in 21 innings at an average of 11.86, often delivering in crucial phases.
The Challenge Trophy will see Rwanda take on teams from across five ICC development regions, including Nepal, USA, Italy, and Vanuatu. The cross-regional format offers a rare opportunity for associate teams to test themselves against unfamiliar opposition, something that is expected to accelerate their development.
Playing at home could prove to be a significant advantage for Rwanda, with familiarity of conditions and local support likely to play a role. More importantly, the tournament represents a steppingstone towards bigger global opportunities, particularly with the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup set to expand to 16 teams by 2030.
For Rwanda, the focus will be on building on their recent performances and converting consistency into silverware. With a well-rounded squad and momentum on their side, the hosts will be aiming to make a strong statement in the inaugural edition of the competition.
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