Rwanda women’s cricket team marked a remarkable start to the race for the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup qualification with a six-wicket victory over Kenya in the pair’s opening match of the Africa Region Division One qualifier which kicked off in Windhoek, Namibia, on Sunday, August 31, Rwanda qualified for the final round of the Africa qualifier after winning the Division Two trophy in Botswana Cricket Association Oval in July. The final round features six nations, with Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Tanzania pooled in Group A, while Rwanda was drawn in Group B alongside Uganda and Kenya. The teams are competing for the lone ticket which is up for grabs to represent Africa at the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, set to take place in England. Kenya, after winning the toss and opting to bat first, set a target of 103 runs for six wickets in 20 overs. Captain Esther Wachira carried much of the responsibility with an impressive 54 runs off 60 balls, while Monicah Ndhambi added 15 runs from 26 balls. ALSO READ: Nhamburo names squad for Women’s T20 WC Qualifiers in Namibia Chasing 104 for victory, Rwanda remained calm under pressure, reaching 106/4 in 19.5 overs. Captain Diane Bimenyimana guided her side with a steady 43 runs off 63 balls, a performance that earned her Player of the Match prize. She was well-supported by Clarisse Uwase, who chipped in with a quick 26 runs off 22 balls, steering Rwanda to their first-ever win at this stage of the qualifiers. Rwanda will next face Uganda on Monday, September 1, at Windhoek Stadium.
