Cricket: Nigeria trump Rwanda to retain Patricia Kambarami Cup
South Africa claim Bronze Nigeria’s Yellow Greens pulled off a remarkable “ashes to glory” comeback on Saturday, successfully defending a low total of 80 runs to defeat arch-rivals Rwanda by
South Africa claim Bronze
- By Morakinyo Abodunrin
Nigeria’s Yellow Greens pulled off a remarkable "ashes to glory" comeback on Saturday, successfully defending a low total of 80 runs to defeat arch-rivals Rwanda by 9 runs in a pulse-pounding final of the 2026 NCF Women’s Invitational Tournament.
In what will be remembered as the lowest score ever successfully defended in the history of the Patricia Kambarami Cup, Nigeria overcame a mid-game batting collapse to stifle the Rwandan chase and secure the championship trophy.
Opting to bat first, Nigeria struggled to find rhythm against a disciplined Rwandan attack. Despite a spark from Esther Sandy (26 off 28) and contributions from Captain Lucky Piety (17 off 15), the Nigerian middle order crumbled. Rwanda’s captain, Marie Diane Bimenyimana, decimated the tail with a clinical hat-trick, as Nigeria lost seven wickets for just 18 runs, finishing 80 all out in 20 overs.
However, the second innings saw a tactical masterclass from the Nigerian bowlers. Peace Usen—named Player of the Match for the third time in the tournament—led the charge, dismantling Rwanda’s top order.
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As the pressure mounted, Rwanda required 24 runs off the final 20 balls with five wickets in hand. Captain Lucky Piety turned the tide with two quick wickets, triggering a panic-stricken collapse from the visitors. Rwanda was eventually bundled out for 71 runs in the final over, sparking wild celebrations at the oval.
In the day's opening Third-Place Play-off , South Africa Women’s U-19 secured the bronze medal with a dominant 70-run victory over neighbours Zimbabwe.
After a brief rain interruption, South African captain Mieke Van Voorst anchored the innings with a stellar half-century (52 off 45), supported by a late cameo from Player of the Match Daneli Boshoff (23), to post 133/5.
In response, Zimbabwe’s chase never ignited; they managed a meagre 63/8 in their allotted 20 overs, stifled by the bowling duo of Ashley Van Wyk and Boshoff.
TOURNAMENT’S HONOURS:
Champions: Nigeria
Runners-up: Rwanda
Third Place: South Africa U-19
MVP: Marie Diane Bimenyimana (Rwanda)
Best Bowler: Peace Usen (Nigeria)
Best Fielder: Christabel Chukuonye (Nigeria)
Best Batter: Beloved Biza (Zimbabwe)
