Rosine to captain Rwanda Women’s National team ahead of BCA women’s T20 tournament

Rwanda’s women’s opening bowler, Rosine Irera, was given the opportunity to lead the Rwanda women’s national team as captain for the BCA Kalahari Women’s T20 International Tournament.

As the team was flagged off to compete, Irera shared her optimism with the media, players and stakeholders in Rwanda Cricket, expressing her familiarity with the team’s strengths and areas for improvement.

Rosine Irera

Although she is new to the captaincy role, Irera affirmed her readiness to adapt and guide the team towards positive outcomes.

She conveyed her pride in representing the nation and her determination for the upcoming challenge.

Rosine emphasized that although the debutants are new to the team, they are not new to cricket.

She expressed readiness to support them and help them showcase their best abilities.

Addressing the gathering at the Hilltop Hotel and Country club, Kigali- Iremera where the flag-off function was held, Uwera Sarah, the newly appointed team manager, highlighted the value of including new players, foreseeing opportunities for the U-19 women’s team in future world cup qualifiers.

Uwera Sarah, new manager for Rwanda Women’s Cricket National team

Coach Nhamburo Leonard emphasized the significance of this tournament, acknowledging the team’s blend of experienced and debutant players.

Leonard stressed the importance of guiding and nurturing the young talent, emphasizing that the tournament serves as valuable preparation for the upcoming May Kwibuka Tournament.

Nhamburo Leonardo, Rwanda Women’s Cricket National team Head Coach

The selection process was meticulous, involving rigorous assessments during RCA women’s leagues and extensive training sessions.

Leonard underscored the role of experienced players in mentoring and leading by example.

The absence of key players like Gisele creates opportunities for emerging talent to shine.

He expressed anticipation for strong home support during the tournament.

In a motivational address to the players, newly appointed Rwanda Men’s team head coach Lawrence Mahatlane emphasized the significance of representing the country with pride and unity.

Lawrence Mahatlane, newly appointed Head coach for the Rwanda Cricket Men’s team

Mahatlane urged the team to approach every match with intensity and mutual support, highlighting the value of dedication and positive mindset in achieving success.

Before the flag-off, President of Rwanda Cricket Association, Stephen Musaale, encouraged the team to give their best and emphasized the importance of collective effort over individual glory.

Stephen Musaale, President Rwanda Cricket Association

He motivated the debutants to seize their opportunity based on merit and reminded everyone of their responsibility in representing Rwanda with honor.

The Rwanda women’s team includes five debutants: Shimwamana Rosette, Gorgette Ingabire, Nadine Nzayituriki, Devotha Uwizeye, and Liliane Ufitinema.

The tournament, hosted by Botswana Cricket Association, will feature four nations: Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Rwanda.

Teams will arrive today, with practice matches and photoshoots scheduled for tomorrow before matches commence on Monday.

The tournament format will be a double round-robin, culminating in a third/fourth place playoff and a final between the top two teams.

This event marks Rwanda’s debut in the tournament, last held in 2018 and won by Zimbabwe.

The team’s participation underscores their growing presence and ambition in international cricket.

Full Squad

Rosine Irera (C), Dianne Bimenyimana, Cathia Uwamahoro, Gorgette Ingabire, Nadine Nzayituriki, Henriette Therese Ishimwe, Josiane Nyirankundineza, Flora Irakoze, Devotha Uwizeye, Marie Jose Tumukunde, Clarisse Umutoniwase, Liliane Ufitinema, Shakila Niyomuhoza, Rosette Shimwamana