The 5th edition of the NCF Women’s Invitational Tournament, tagged the Patricia Kambarami Cup, began on an electrifying note, with hosts Nigeria making an early statement alongside a record-breaking performance from Rwanda.
Nigeria vs Zimbabwe U-19: Hosts Make Strong Opening Statement
Nigeria delivered a clinical all-round performance to defeat Zimbabwe Women’s U-19 by 8 wickets, underlining their intent to challenge for the title on home soil.
After Zimbabwe won the toss and elected to bat, Nigeria’s bowling unit set the tone early. The opening pair of Lilian Ude and Anointed Akhigbe applied immediate pressure, with Akhigbe striking in the third over.
Peace Usen emerged as the standout performer, tearing through Zimbabwe’s middle order with a brilliant spell of 3 wickets for 16 runs. Akhigbe matched that intensity, also claiming 3 wickets, as Zimbabwe collapsed to 80 all out in 16.5 overs.
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In response, Nigeria’s chase was calm and controlled. Captain Lucky Piety and Victory Igbinedion provided a steady start before contributions from Salome Sunday (19) and Amusa Kehinde (13) guided the team home.
Nigeria sealed victory at 81/2 in just 11.2 overs, showcasing both composure and dominance.
Peace Usen was deservedly named Player of the Match.
Rwanda vs Ghana: Record-Breaking Opener
Earlier in the day, Rwanda produced a sensational batting display to set a tournament record, posting 210 runs against Ghana.
Fanny Utagushimaninde stole the spotlight with a historic innings, scoring a remarkable 111 off 65 balls on her international debut – becoming the youngest player to score a century in Women’s T20 Internationals.
Supported by Uwase Merveille (32), Rwanda’s innings was filled with aggressive stroke play and relentless scoring.
Ghana, despite showing moments of resilience, struggled under pressure and finished on 88/8 in 20 overs, handing Rwanda a dominant 122-run victory.
Utagushimaninde was named Player of the Match for her record-breaking performance.
A Tournament Off to a Flying Start
Named in honour of the late Patricia Kambarami, former ICC Africa Regional Development Manager, the tournament celebrates her immense contribution to the growth of women’s cricket across Africa.
With Nigeria already stamping authority and Rwanda setting new benchmarks, the stage is set for a thrilling competition as teams battle for continental glory.
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