Nigeria continued their impressive run in the tournament with a dominant second victory, underlining their growing momentum and intent. Meanwhile, Rwanda showcased resilience and composure in a dramatic encounter, edging South Africa Women’s U-19 by five runs in a nail-biting finish at the 5th NCF Women’s Invitational Tournament (Patricia Kambarami Cup).
The win for Rwanda not only highlighted their fighting spirit but also ensured they maintained a perfect record, making it three wins from three and firmly establishing themselves as one of the standout teams in the competition.
Day 3 – Match 5: Nigeria vs Ghana
Nigeria delivered a commanding performance to defeat Ghana by 136 runs, registering their second victory of the tournament in emphatic fashion.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, captain Lucky Piety and Victory Igbinedion gave Nigeria a blistering start, racing to 44 runs in just three overs. Piety contributed 18 early runs before eventually falling for 23 off 17 balls in the sixth over, with Nigeria at 50.
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At the end of the powerplay, Nigeria stood strong at 56/1, maintaining steady momentum. The innings gained further stability through Amusa Kehinde, while Victory Igbinedion, who was progressing well, was forced to retire hurt on 18 (27 balls).
Despite Ghana applying pressure in the middle overs, Nigeria continued to build through key contributions, most notably from Christabel Chukwuonye, who produced an outstanding knock of 43 off 27 balls.
Nigeria closed their innings at an imposing 159/4 in 20 overs.
In response, Ghana’s batting lineup crumbled under relentless Nigerian bowling. Within 6.5 overs, they were reeling at 13/5, unable to cope with the disciplined attack.
The collapse continued as wickets fell in quick succession, with Ghana eventually bowled out for just 23 runs, sealing a comprehensive Nigerian victory.
Peace Usen led the charge with an exceptional spell of 3 wickets for 9 runs (1 maiden), well supported by Mbam Henrietta (3/7) and Favour Effiong (2/2).
Peace Usen was deservedly named Player of the Match.
Day 3 – Match 6: Rwanda vs South Africa Women U-19
Rwanda held their nerve in a thrilling contest to defeat South Africa Women’s U-19 by 5 runs, maintaining their perfect run in the tournament.
After winning the toss and opting to bat, Rwanda started aggressively with Gisele Ishimwe and Fanny Utagushimaninde finding early boundaries. However, South Africa struck back quickly, dismissing Ishimwe and later captain Marie Diane Bimenyimana, putting Rwanda under pressure.
Despite the early setbacks, Fanny anchored the innings as Rwanda reached 38 runs at the end of the powerplay.
A lightning interruption reduced the match to 14 overs per side, altering the game’s dynamics.
Rwanda rebuilt and pushed on to post 101/7, with Clarisse Umotoniwase (26 off 21) leading the scoring, supported by Fanny (24 off 25) and Uwase Merveille (17 off 10).
South Africa responded confidently, keeping up with the required run rate early on. However, Rwanda fought back with crucial wickets to swing momentum in their favour.
A strong partnership, led by captain Mieke Van Voorst, who scored 34 off 27 balls, brought South Africa back into contention as they reached 90/3 in 12 overs.
With 11 runs needed from the final over, the match went down to the wire. Rwanda showed remarkable composure under pressure, conceding minimal runs and restricting South Africa to 100/4 in 14 overs.
Alice Ikuzwe was named Player of the Match for her decisive contribution.
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