Nairobi, Kenya – Rwanda Women claimed a commanding 7-wicket victory over Kenya Women in the 3rd T20I of their five-match series on September 11, 2024, at the Sikh Union Club Ground. The win gives Rwanda a 2-1 lead in the series, with Marie Bimenyimana playing a crucial all-round role to earn the Player of the Match accolade.
Kenya Women, after winning the toss and opting to bat first, struggled to post a competitive total, managing 107/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Queentor Abel was the top scorer with 27 off 25 balls, while Awe Wambua contributed 18 off 19. However, Kenya lost wickets at regular intervals, and the middle order failed to build momentum.
Rwanda’s bowlers put on a disciplined display, with Belise Murekatete being the standout performer, taking 3 wickets for 19 runs in her 3 overs. Rosine Irera provided excellent support with 2/21 from her full quota of overs, while Marie Bimenyimana chipped in with 1/17.
In response, Rwanda chased down the target of 108 with relative ease, finishing at 108/3 in 18.3 overs. Skipper Marie Bimenyimana anchored the chase with a patient 38 off 42 balls, supported by opener Merveille Uwase, who contributed 33 off 47. While both fell before the end of the innings, Gisele Ishimwe and Henriette Ishimwe finished the job with aggressive knocks of 15 off 8 and 14 off 10 respectively, ensuring Rwanda’s victory with 9 balls to spare.
Key Highlights:
- Marie Bimenyimana played a crucial all-round role, scoring 38 off 42 balls and taking 1/17, earning her the Player of the Match award.
- Kenya’s Queentor Abel top-scored for her side with 27 off 25, but lacked support from the middle order.
- Rwanda’s Belise Murekatete shone with the ball, taking 3 wickets for 19 runs in her 3 overs.
- Rwanda chased down the target of 108 comfortably, with contributions from Bimenyimana and Uwase, sealing the win by 7 wickets.
Brief Scores:
Kenya Women: 107/9 in 20 overs (Queentor Abel 27, Awe Wambua 18, Belise Murekatete 3/19, Rosine Irera 2/21)
Rwanda Women: 108/3 in 18.3 overs (Marie Bimenyimana 38, Merveille Uwase 33, Esther Wachira 2/20)
Result: Rwanda Women won by 7 wickets (with 9 balls remaining)
Player of the Match: Marie Bimenyimana (RWA-W) – 38 (42) & 1/17
This victory gave Rwanda a crucial 2-1 lead in the series, with two more matches to play.
