Nepal Women delivered a disciplined all-round performance to register a 38-run victory over Rwanda Women in the ICC Women’s T20I Challenge Trophy 2026, combining steady batting with an effective bowling display.
Early Wobbles Before Nepal Rebuild
Nepal’s innings began on an uncertain note, with early wickets disrupting momentum. Samjhana Khadka was dismissed for 6 off 7 balls at 1 for 8, followed by Bindu Rawal, who fell lbw for 2, leaving the score at 10 for 2. Rubi Poddar’s early departure for 6 further compounded the situation as Nepal slipped to 23 for 3.
Rwanda’s bowlers, led by Henriette Ishimwe and Marie Bimenyimana, maintained pressure with tight lines and timely breakthroughs.
Indu Barma Anchors Recovery
The innings stabilised through captain Indu Barma, who anchored the batting with a composed unbeaten 33 from 45 balls. She found support in Kabita Kunwar, who contributed 24 off 26 deliveries as the pair rebuilt the innings after the early setbacks.
Kunwar’s dismissal at 69 for 5 ended a key partnership, but the groundwork had been laid. Rubina Chhetry added 11 off 12 balls, while Rachana Chaudhary remained unbeaten as Nepal pushed towards a competitive total.
Nepal finished on 103 for 7 in their 20 overs, with extras contributing 15 runs. Ishimwe led Rwanda’s bowling effort with 3 for 20, while Bimenyimana took 2 for 17 and Rosine Irera claimed 1 for 16.
Rwanda Struggle in Chase
Chasing 104, Rwanda were immediately on the back foot. Fanny Utagushimaninde managed just 2 before being dismissed, and Gisele Ishimwe fell for a duck, leaving the side at 2 for 2.
Alice Ikuzwe attempted to steady the innings with 7 off 27 balls, while captain Marie Bimenyimana scored 19 from 27 deliveries. However, scoring remained difficult as Nepal’s bowlers applied constant pressure.
Upadhayay Leads Bowling Effort
Manisha Upadhayay was the standout performer with the ball, returning figures of 3 for 10 in her four overs. Kabita Kunwar provided support with 2 for 17, while Puja Mahato and Riya Sharma also picked up two wickets each.
Rwanda’s innings slipped from 38 for 4 to 44 for 7, effectively ending the contest. Late contributions from Geovais Uwase (12 off 7) and Flora Irakoze (8) were not enough as Rwanda were bowled out for 65 in 17.4 overs.
