Cricket: Rwanda Edge Nigeria In Patricia Kambarami Cup Clash

Rwanda continued their impressive run at the 2026 Nigeria Cricket Federation Women’s Invitational tournament, the Patricia Kambarami Cup, by securing a dominant 6-wicket victory over rivals Nigeria in Match 8 on Tuesday.

Winning the toss and electing to bat, Nigeria’s innings quickly unraveled. Captain Lucky Piety fell on the third ball, followed by Eguakun Omosigho and Salome Sunday, leaving Nigeria reeling at 18 for 3 after just four overs. Despite a resilient unbeaten 36 from Esther Sandy, Nigeria struggled to form meaningful partnerships, eventually being bowled out for 90 runs in 19.1 overs. Belise Murekatete, Rosine Irera, Bimenyinmana Diane, and Alice Ikuzwe each claimed two wickets for Rwanda, showcasing a stellar bowling performance.

In response, Nigeria’s defense of 90 started promisingly with Lillian Ude dismissing the dangerous Gisele Ishime and Captain Marie Diane. However, an expensive over from Anointed Akhigbe and a lack of consolidation from subsequent bowlers allowed Rwanda to stabilize. Henriette Ishimwe then took control, guiding Rwanda to victory with an unbeaten 32 runs off just 18 balls, supported by Clarisse Umutoniwase’s 17. Rwanda reached the target of 93 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 15.4 overs, marking their fourth consecutive win in the tournament.

Henriette Ishimwe was deservedly named Player of the Match for her match-winning innings.