Rwanda bounced back on Wednesday with a six-wicket victory over Sierra Leone, while Uganda continued their push for a place in the Africa Continental Cup final with a five-wicket win over Botswana in Kigali.
At Gahanga International Cricket Stadium, Rwanda's bowlers set the tone by restricting Sierra Leone to 87/9 in 20 overs before the hosts completed the chase in 12.5 overs, reaching 91/4.
Eric Kubwimana was the difference with the ball, producing a superb spell of 4/8 from his four overs to earn Player of the Match honours.
Sierra Leone struggled to build momentum against Rwanda's attack, losing wickets at regular intervals and finishing below 100.
Rwanda's chase was controlled rather than spectacular. Captain Didier Ndikubwimana made 18 from 18 balls, while Isae Niyomugabo scored 12 from 15 balls before being run out.
David Uwimana then helped steer the hosts home with a quickfire 24 from nine balls, allowing Rwanda to complete the victory with 43 balls to spare.
The result provided Rwanda with an important lift after Tuesday's 32-run defeat to Kenya. Having also beaten Botswana earlier in the tournament, the hosts returned to winning ways and finished their latest outing on a positive note.
Uganda keep pressure on
At the other Kigali venue, Uganda maintained their strong position in the competition by beating Botswana by five wickets.
Botswana posted 119/8 from their 20 overs, but Uganda made light work of the chase, reaching 125/5 in just 15 overs.
Katlo Piet starred with an all-round performance, taking 4/24 from four overs before making an unbeaten 20 from 17 balls.
His contribution helped Uganda maintain control of the chase despite losing five wickets. The result keeps Uganda firmly in contention at the top end of the table.
Rwanda head coach Lawrence Mahatlane acknowledged the challenge posed by Uganda but believes his team has narrowed the gap with the regional rivals.
"If we just look at the rankings, we are closing the gap against them. Uganda are 21st and we are 53rd. So it’s a tough ask, but we are very competitive compared to previous years. Tomorrow we are going to fight to win,” Mahatlane said.
For Rwanda, Thursday's meeting with Uganda will be about more than points. After defeats to Kenya and Uganda, another victory would strengthen their position and provide an opportunity to measure their progress against one of the tournament's leading sides.
Thursday fixtures
Gahanga Cricket Stadium
9:30 AM — Rwanda vs Uganda
1:30 PM — Botswana vs Kenya