By 
In a splendid showcase of cricketing prowess, the Soroti Cricket Academy U-17 girls secured two victories in the opening games of their invitational tour to Kigali, Rwanda.
The excitement unfolded at the Gahanga Cricket Stadium in the morning, although a delayed start and a reduced 10-over match ensued due to yesterday’s heavy rainfall.
Soroti Cricket Academy’s captain, Jimia Mohammad Abadallah, strategically opted to bowl first after winning the toss, capitalizing on the moist conditions.
Jimia Mohammad during the toss.
Rwanda U-17 girls faced a challenging pitch and were bundled out for a mere 11 runs in 9.5 overs.
In response, Soroti Cricket Academy displayed dominance, losing only one wicket and reaching 12/1 in just 2.2 overs, securing victory by 9 wickets.
Apolot Patricia, with impressive figures of 2/1 in 2 overs, a crucial catch, and a maiden, rightfully earned the Player of the Match accolade.
The resilient performance showcased their skillful execution and the ability to adapt to challenging conditions on the cricket field.
The girls having a rest after getting in some runs.
In the riveting second T20 match that unfolded in the afternoon at the same venue between the Soroti Cricket Academy (SCA) U-17 girls and the Rwanda U-17 girls, Captain Abadallah once again secured victory by winning the toss.
This time, she chose to bat first, opting for a strategic shift to gauge her team’s adaptability in various game situations.
The SCA U-17 girls exhibited their batting prowess, setting a competitive target of 84 all out in 19.5 overs. Asumin Akurut contributed significantly with 23 off 32, and Timong Patricia Phiona added a valuable 20 off 38 to the scoreboard.
SCA U-17 girls encountered a formidable bowling performance from Umukundwa Nascilla, who picked 4/13 in 4 overs. Nascilla played a crucial role in managing the damage caused by the explosive Soroti batters.
In pursuit of victory, Rwanda U-17 girls were bundled out for 46 in 19.2 overs, with Niyosenga Jeanette posting 8 off 20.
Bowling for Soroti Cricket Academy, Tino Sarah delivered a stellar performance with figures of 3/6 in 3 overs, earning her the well-deserved Player of the Match for Soroti Cricket Academy.
Reflecting on her exceptional performance, Tino Sarah shared that her success was attributed to bowling straight to the stumps and patiently waiting for the batters to make a move across the line.
The SCA U-17 girls emerged triumphant once again, securing a 38-run victory in the second game, maintaining an impressive 100 percent win record in the ongoing Kigali tour.
Their consistent success showcases not only their individual skills but also the cohesive strength of the team as they navigate the challenges on the cricket field.
In an enlightening conversation with Mr. Rurangwa Landry, the Development Manager of Rwanda Cricket Association, he expressed his satisfaction despite the loss incurred by the Rwandan girls in both games.
He highlighted the positive aspect of improvement exhibited by the team during the match, emphasizing the significance of playing in varied conditions, especially after the rain. This exposure, he noted, is crucial for the players’ preparation to handle diverse challenges on the cricket field.
Mr. Landry conveyed his happiness regarding the ongoing tournament, underscoring its role in providing exposure to both sides and fostering growth in the game and the relationship between Rwanda and Uganda.
He revealed the organized efforts in Rwanda Cricket, notably the construction of a new cricket ground at Ntare School, anticipating that this initiative will contribute to the overall expansion and development of cricket in Rwanda.
Emphasizing the diversity in player representation, Mr. Landry highlighted that participants from different provinces were assembled for the ongoing tournament.
Moreover, he shared that most of these players are likely to form part of the Under-19 team slated to compete during the qualifiers in Kigali later in August, showcasing the tournament’s role in talent identification and development.
The ongoing tournament serves as a crucial platform for players from both teams, offering a valuable opportunity for exposure and game-centric growth.
Wednesday 17th’s scheduled long-format 40-over game, commencing in the morning, not only promises an engaging spectacle but also provides a unique chance for players to enhance their skills and fortify their mental resilience.
This extended format encourages a deeper exploration of strategic play, fostering a richer environment for individual and team development.
