Match 1: Tanzania vs Rwanda
The NCF Women’s Invitational T20i kicked off with an exciting clash between Tanzania and Rwanda. The toss favored Rwanda, who chose to bat first. Rwanda posted a competitive total of 119 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Key contributions came from Uwase Merveille 36 runs of 38 balls, Umutoniwase Clarissa and Bimenyimana Marie Diane, setting up a challenging target for Tanzania.
In the second innings, Tanzania struggled to chase down the target and was eventually bowled out for 86 runs in 16.4 overs. The star of the match was undoubtedly Ishimwe Heinriette from Rwanda, who put up an outstanding bowling performance. She took three crucial wickets in her three overs, conceding just 14 runs. Heinriette’s exceptional efforts earned her the Player of the Match award.
Ultimately, Rwanda emerged victorious by 33 runs, showcasing their prowess in both batting and bowling departments.
Match 2: Nigeria vs Sierra Leone
The second encounter featured Nigeria against Sierra Leone, with Nigeria winning the toss and choosing to bat. The Nigerian women, known as the “FemaleYellowgreens,” exhibited a strong batting display, posting a formidable total of 137 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in their 20 overs. Favour Esiegbe played a pivotal role, scoring 44 runs off 48 balls, while Agboya Peculiar contributed an unbeaten 33 runs off 41 balls, and Esther Sandy added a quick 30 off 21 balls.
Sierra Leone faced a challenging run chase and struggled to get going in the second innings. They managed to score only 83 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Nigeria’s bowlers maintained control, restricting Sierra Leone from reaching the target comfortably.
Favour Esiegbe’s all-around performance earned her the Player of the Match award, securing Nigeria’s victory by a convincing margin of 54 runs.
With these thrilling matches setting the stage, the NCF Women’s Invitational T20I promises more action-packed encounters as the tournament progresses.