Rwanda Women head into the first semi-final with a perfect group-stage record, establishing themselves as one of the most consistent sides in the competition. Their disciplined bowling attack has been central to their success, regularly restricting opposition line-ups. Zimbabwe U19 Women, meanwhile, arrive after a mixed campaign, but their emphatic 180-run victory over Ghana highlighted their potential when their batting unit clicks. As underdogs, they carry the ability to challenge if they can maintain their aggressive approach.
The two sides have already met earlier in the tournament, where Rwanda secured a comfortable 60-run win, with Marie Diane Bimenyimana and Henriette Ishimwe playing key roles. Rwanda’s strength lies in a core group of experienced players capable of handling pressure in knockout matches. For Zimbabwe U19, much will depend on Beloved Biza, whose century against Ghana remains the standout individual performance of the competition. A strong start from her at the top could test Rwanda’s bowling unit in ways it has not yet faced.
Conditions at the Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval are expected to favour disciplined spin, which suits Rwanda’s approach. However, Zimbabwe’s youthful energy, particularly in the field, could play a decisive role if they maintain intensity and force errors. If Rwanda bat first and post a total around 140, it could prove challenging for the Zimbabwe U19 side. With a place in the final at stake, momentum will be crucial in this one-off contest.
Squads
Rwanda Women:
Alice Ikuzwe, Belise Murekatete, Fanny Utagushimaninde, Flora Irakoze, Geovanis Uwase, Rosette Shimwamana, Rosine Irera, Sylivie Usabyimana, Clarisse Umutoniwase, Gisele Ishimwe, Henriette T. Ishimwe, Marie Diane Bimenyimana (C), Merveille Uwase, Shakila Niyomuhoza
Zimbabwe U19 Women:
Beloved Biza, Bethel Makanaka Zinyama, Buhlebenkosi Maposa, Christina Mutasa, Lorraine Pembiwa, Munenyasha Mandidzora, Naomi Mhlekwa, Nicolette Nyika, Nokutenda Makanhiwa, Ruvarashe Mpofu, Salem Museka, Sharmaine Manyukwi, Tadiwa Garutsa, Tawananyasha Zvomarima
Players to Watch
Fanny Utagushimaninde:
Fanny has been among the leading run-scorers in the tournament with 156 runs, including an unbeaten 111 against Ghana. With an average of 52.00 and a strike rate of 121.87, she has struck 23 boundaries and remains a key figure in Rwanda’s batting order.
Beloved Biza:
Biza has been Zimbabwe U19’s standout performer, scoring 170 runs in four innings at a strike rate of 134.92. Her unbeaten 102 is the highest individual score in the tournament so far, supported by 23 boundaries and a six.
Marie Diane Bimenyimana:
Bimenyimana has led Rwanda’s bowling attack with eight wickets at an average of 6.50 and an economy rate of 3.80. Her best figures of 4 for 17 rank among the top performances in the competition.
Salem Museka:
Museka has taken six wickets in four matches for Zimbabwe U19, including best figures of 4 for 8. With an economy rate of 5.43, she has been effective in breaking partnerships during the middle overs.
Pitch Report
The Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval in Lagos features a modern turf wicket that offers consistent bounce compared to the previous concrete surface. Seamers may find early assistance, while the pitch is expected to dry out and favour spinners as the match progresses.
Weather Report
Conditions in Lagos are forecast to include scattered thunderstorms during the day, with temperatures reaching 32°C and dropping to 26°C at night. There is a 35% chance of rain across the day and evening.
Fantasy XI Picks
Alice Ikuzwe, Fanny Utagushimaninde, Rosine Irera, Gisele Ishimwe, Henriette T. Ishimwe, Marie Diane Bimenyimana, Beloved Biza, Nicolette Nyika, Salem Museka, Tadiwa Garutsa, Tawananyasha Zvomarima
Match Details
- Date: 27 March, 2026
- Time: 2:00 PM
- Venue: Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval, Lagos, Nigeria
- Broadcast: Live streaming on the FanCode app and website
