Rwanda Women, captained by Marie Bimenyimana, secured a convincing 41-run victory over Vanuatu Women, led by Rachel Andrew, in the third match of the ICC Women’s T20I Challenge Trophy 2026 at Gahanga B Ground.
After suffering defeats on the opening day of the tournament, Rwanda responded strongly with a well-rounded performance led by their skipper.
Rwanda Recover After Early Collapse
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Rwanda faced early setbacks as their top order collapsed within the first three overs. The innings was steadied by a crucial 49-run fourth-wicket partnership between Marie Bimenyimana and Gisele Ishimwe.
Ishimwe contributed 34 off 31 balls before being dismissed by Nasimana Navaika in the 11th over, handing Vanuatu their fourth breakthrough. Clarisse Uwase then joined Bimenyimana, and the pair added 21 runs for the fifth wicket to keep the innings on track.
Navaika returned to remove Bimenyimana for 28 off 39 balls in the 15th over. Later, a 20-run stand for the seventh wicket between Henriette Ishimwe (24 off 18 balls) and Uwase pushed Rwanda past the 100-run mark.
Rwanda finished on 109/8 in their 20 overs, with five extras added to the total.
Vanuatu Bowling Highlights:
- Vanessa Vira: 4-1-8-3
- Nasimana Navaika: 4-0-18-2
- Rayline Ova: 4-0-30-1
Rwanda Bowlers Dominate the Chase
Chasing 110, Vanuatu struggled to build any momentum as wickets fell regularly throughout the innings. The only notable resistance came through a 27-run partnership for the fifth wicket between Gillian Chilia (9 off 19 balls) and Susan Stephen (20 off 29 balls).
Apart from Stephen and Selina Solman (10 off 14 balls), no batter managed to make a significant contribution. Vanuatu were eventually bowled out for 68 with three balls remaining, falling well short of the target.
Rwanda’s bowling attack was disciplined and effective, with contributions across the unit.
Rwanda Bowling Highlights:
- Marie Bimenyimana: 4-1-8-3
- Belise Murekatete: 3.3-0-6-3
- Henriette Ishimwe: 4-0-14-1
- Rosette Shimwamana: 4-0-17-1
Bimenyimana Leads from the Front
Marie Bimenyimana delivered a match-winning all-round performance, scoring 28 runs with the bat and returning figures of 4-1-8-3 with the ball. Her impact at both ends earned her the Player of the Match award.
The win marks an important turnaround for Rwanda as they bounce back in the tournament with a composed and dominant display.
