By 
Result
Indatwa Hampshire 129/3 in 20 overs
Charity Cricket Club 89/7 in 20 overs
Indatwa Hampshire won by 40 runs
Ishimwe Gisele delivered a standout performance with a half-century, leading Indatwa Hampshire to victory over Charity Cricket Club and securing the RCA Women’s T20 Trophy.
This win marks the second consecutive triumph for Hampshire, who had previously claimed the trophy last year.
Their path to the finals included a decisive semifinals win against Muhanga Zebras, while Charity reached the final by defeating Gahanga Queens in the semifinals.
In the final match, Indatwa Hampshire won the toss and chose to bat first, setting a formidable total of 129/3 in their allotted 20 overs.
Gisele shone with an impressive 61 off 58 balls, supported by Henriette Therese Ishimwe, who contributed a brisk 39 off 23 balls.
Among Charity’s bowlers, Umutoni Uwase Chanceline was notable, taking two wickets with an economy rate of 4.5, while Nyirandorimana Pacifique picked up the only other wicket.
Charity Cricket Club, despite having experienced batters like Janet Mbabazi, Kevin Awino, Diane Marie Bimenyimana, and Cathia Uwamahoro, struggled in their chase.
They ended their innings at 89/7 in 20 overs, falling short by 40 runs.
Captain Diane Marie Bimenyimana top-scored with 29, and Cathia Uwamahoro added 21, but their efforts were insufficient against a strong Hampshire bowling attack.
Umutoni Chanceline took three wickets, supported by her captain Henriette Therese Ishimwe.
Gisele’s all-around excellence in the final, including her unbeaten half-century and two catches, earned her the Player of the Match award.
This performance was a timely reminder of her skills, especially since she was not selected for the Rwanda senior women’s team that went to Botswana for the Kalahari Women’s T20 International Tournament.
However, her impressive display has caught the attention of the selectors, securing her a spot in the squad for the upcoming Kwibuka Tournament.
Gisele excelled as the tournament’s best batter, scoring 194 runs in 5 innings with an impressive average of 64.67 and a strike rate of 97.49
The Kwibuka Tournament is a highly prestigious event that no player wants to miss.
As the defending champions, Rwanda will be eager to retain their title, and Gisele’s inclusion in the team will be a significant boost to their chances.
In his remarks after the finals, RCA President Musaale Steven congratulated Indatwa Hampshire on their maiden victory against Charity in the finals.
Musaale delivering his speech at the closing ceremony
He expressed confidence that Charity would rebound and defeat Indatwa Hampshire in their next encounter.
Steven also congratulated the players selected for the Kwibuka Tournament squad, urging them to retain the trophy they won last year by defeating Uganda.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining their status as defending champions.
Steven highlighted the upcoming match on May 9, 2024, where Abakambwe will face 4 Oclock club from Nigeria.
He noted that Abakambwe has an unbeaten record on home ground and called on fans to come out and support the team, underscoring the significance of their home advantage in securing another victory.
INDIVIDUAL AWARDS
Player of Series- Marie Diane Bimenyimana
Best Batter- Gisele Ishimwe
Best Bowler- Marie Diane Bimenyimana
Best fielder- Clementine Uwayisaba
Photo Credits: Ishimwe Abdoulkahal (RCA media)
