Rwanda continued their impressive start to the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup Africa Sub Regional Qualifier A with a dramatic two-wicket victory over Kenya in Gaborone, Botswana, on Monday. In a tense contest played at the Botswana Cricket Association Oval 1, Kenya elected to bat first and posted 101/9 in their 20 overs before Rwanda successfully chased down the target, reaching 102/8 in 17.3 overs. ALSO READ: Rwanda start World Cup qualifier campaign with win over Cameroon Martin Akayezu was named Player of the Match after producing a match-winning innings of 38 runs off just 21 balls at an outstanding strike rate of 180.95, guiding Rwanda over the line under pressure. After starring in Rwanda’s opening victory against Cameroon, Hamza Khan once again provided an aggressive start with 18 runs from 14 deliveries, including four boundaries, while David Uwimana added a valuable 13 off 13 balls as Rwanda’s middle order battled through tense moments to secure victory. For Kenya, wicketkeeper Irfan Karim scored 17 runs off 27 balls, while Subham Patel contributed 24 off 27 deliveries to help the side reach 101/9. Sachin Gill also played a crucial late innings, smashing 33 runs off 24 balls at a strike rate of 137.50 to push Rwanda deep into the chase. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Rwanda held their nerve in the closing stages to claim a significant victory against one of the tournament favourites. Speaking after the match, Rwanda captain Didier Ndikubwimana admitted Kenya had pushed his side to the limit and praised Akayezu’s decisive contribution. “It was a tough game, and honestly we made it difficult for ourselves in the middle overs. But what I’m proud of is the character this team showed,” he said. “We didn’t panic. We knew chasing this target was still possible if we stayed disciplined. The message in the middle was simple — stay calm, rotate the strike, and rebuild step by step.” Ndikubwimana credited Akayezu’s innings for shifting momentum back in Rwanda’s favour. “Martin’s aggressive 38 off 21 balls completely changed the energy in the dressing room and on the field. It lifted everyone and suddenly the pressure went back onto Kenya.” The victory means Rwanda remain unbeaten in their last three qualifying matches.
