Kwibuka T20: YellowGreens bounce back with commanding win over Malawi

Posted : 11 June 2026

Nigeria’s Female YellowGreens produced a clinical all-round display to register their first victory at the 2026 Kwibuka T20 Tournament, defeating Malawi Women by 52 runs on Wednesday in Kigali, Rwanda.

The convincing Group Stage triumph at the Gahanga 2 Cricket Oval marked a strong response from the Nigerian side after a difficult start to the competition.

After being sent in to bat by Malawi, Nigeria battled through challenging conditions to post 98 for eight in their allotted 20 overs.

The total proved more than sufficient as the YellowGreens unleashed a disciplined bowling performance to dismiss Malawi for just 46 runs in 10.3 overs.

Jessica Bieni led Nigeria’s batting effort with an unbeaten 25, holding the innings together after early setbacks. Sarah Etim contributed 14 runs, while captain Favour Eseigbe and Christabel Chukwuonye chipped in with 11 runs each.

Although Malawi’s Lucky Malino impressed with four wickets, Nigeria’s lower-order resilience ensured the team approached the three-figure mark on a bowler-friendly surface.

The match, however, was decided by Nigeria’s outstanding bowling attack.

Shola Adekunle delivered a Player of the Match performance, claiming three wickets for 15 runs as Malawi’s chase never gained momentum.

Henrietta Mbam provided valuable support with two wickets for 16 runs, while captain Eseigbe produced a remarkable spell, taking two wickets in three deliveries without conceding a run.

Nigeria maintained relentless pressure from the outset, forcing regular breakthroughs and denying Malawi any opportunity to build partnerships.

The Malawian batting line-up struggled to cope with the disciplined attack as wickets tumbled throughout the innings.

Speaking after the match, Eseigbe praised the determination shown by her players despite falling short of their desired batting total.

“Our plan was to score above 120, but credit to the Malawi bowlers because they bowled really well and troubled our batters,” she said.

“However, we had a Plan B. We never give up until the game is over.”

The skipper highlighted the team's adaptability and belief as key factors behind the victory.

“Even when batting became difficult, we stayed patient, rotated the strike and kept looking for ways to move the scoreboard.

“Regardless of the total we ended up with, we were prepared to defend it.”

Eseigbe also commended the coaching staff and players for maintaining confidence throughout the contest.

“One of the biggest positives from this match is the team’s mindset. We don’t relent when things get hard; we keep searching for solutions because sometimes a breakthrough comes when you least expect it.

“I want to give credit to my teammates and coaching staff. Before the second innings even started, everyone knew it was going to be a battle and was ready to fight for the team.”

The victory provides a significant boost to Nigeria’s campaign as the YellowGreens look to build momentum in the tournament.

They will return to action on Thursday against Brazil at the Gahanga A Oval in Kigali.

This commanding performance re-establishes the team's competitive presence in Kigali. By combining lower-order resilience with an exceptional bowling display, Nigeria demonstrated the depth necessary to challenge the field. Maintaining this tactical discipline will be crucial as the squad prepares for its next fixture.

Kwibuka T20: YellowGreens bounce back with commanding win over Malawi

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