Rwanda’s ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Division 1 campaign got off to a difficult start after they suffered a 51-run defeat to Zimbabwe in their opening qualifier in Dar es Salaam on Sunday.

Zimbabwe posted 139 for seven in their 20 overs before bowling Rwanda out for 88 in 19.2 overs to secure a convincing victory.

Batting first, Zimbabwe built a competitive total despite losing seven wickets. Rwanda’s bowlers made regular breakthroughs but struggled to contain the Zimbabwean batters during the latter stages of the innings.

Rwanda’s chase never gained momentum as wickets fell at regular intervals, preventing the young Wasps from building the partnerships needed to stay in contention.

They were eventually bowled out for 88 in 19.2 overs, handing Zimbabwe a 51-run victory.

The result gives Zimbabwe an early advantage in Group A, which also features Namibia and Kenya. Rwanda still have two group matches remaining and will need a strong response to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.

Rwanda entered the tournament with confidence after head coach Adelin Tuyizere highlighted the team’s familiarity with their opponents.

"Zimbabwe, Namibia and Kenya are teams that we have played before, and that gives us the whole opportunity in the world to give it a go,” Tuyizere said ahead of the tournament.

He also urged his players to remain focused on executing their roles and improving from one match to the next rather than being overwhelmed by the reputation of their opponents.

Rwanda will next face Namibia, knowing victory is important to revive their qualification hopes.

The Africa qualifier features eight teams divided into two groups, with the tournament offering a pathway to the 2027 ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup which will take place in Nepal and Bangladesh.