Rwanda maintain perfect run with dominant win over Nigeria in Kambarami Cup clash

Posted : 25 March 2026

Rwanda continued their impressive run at the Patricia Kambarami Cup, handing Team Nigeria their first defeat of the tournament with a composed six-wicket victory in a closely watched encounter.

Playing on home soil, Nigeria opted to set a target after winning the toss, but the decision quickly unraveled. The innings got off to a disastrous start as captain Lucky Piety was trapped lbw off just the third delivery, setting the tone for a difficult outing with the bat.

The early pressure mounted as Eguakun Omosigho and Salome Sunday followed in quick succession, leaving Nigeria reeling at 18 for 3 inside four overs. Despite attempts to stabilize, the hosts struggled to build any meaningful partnerships, managing only 31 runs by the end of the power play.

Esther Sandy provided the lone spark in an otherwise faltering innings, standing firm with a well-crafted unbeaten 36 off 31 balls. However, consistent breakthroughs from Rwanda’s disciplined bowling unit ensured Nigeria never gained momentum, eventually folding for 90 in 19.1 overs.

Rwanda’s bowling effort was a collective masterclass, with Belise Murekatete, Rosine Irera, Marie Diane Bimenyimana, and Alice Ikuzwe all picking up two wickets each to keep the scoring in check.

Chasing a modest target, Rwanda were initially cautious and faced early resistance from the Nigerian bowlers, who reduced them to 12 runs with two wickets down in the opening five overs.

However, the visitors gradually seized control during the middle overs, capitalizing on loose deliveries and extras to rebuild their innings. Henriette Ishimwe led the charge with a fluent unbeaten 32 off just 18 balls, while Clarisse Umutoniwase chipped in with a steady 17 to guide the chase.

Rwanda comfortably reached 93 for 4 in 15.4 overs, sealing their fourth consecutive victory and further underlining their dominance in the tournament.

Speaking after the match, Player of the Match Henriette Ishimwe expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance.

“I’m delighted to have played a role in the team’s win,” she said.

The result not only strengthens Rwanda’s position in the competition but also serves as a wake-up call for Nigeria as the tournament intensifies.

This loss highlights the need for Nigeria to address their top-order batting struggles before the next round of fixtures. While Rwanda remains the team to beat, the hosts still have an opportunity to bounce back and secure a spot in the final stages. Fans expect a stronger showing as the competition reaches its peak in the coming days.

Rwanda maintain perfect run with dominant win over Nigeria in Kambarami Cup clash

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