Hamza Khan leads Rwanda’s batting charge
Rwanda secured a hard-fought six-run victory against Botswana in Match 12 of the
Khan was the standout performer of the first innings, anchoring the Rwanda effort with a blistering 93 off just 48 balls. While wickets fell at regular intervals around him, Khan maintained a high scoring rate to keep the momentum in Rwanda's favour. Jean Iradukunda provided some late support with a quick-fire 17 off 10 balls, helping the side reach their final total. For Botswana, Katlo Piet was the pick of the bowlers, delivering a highly disciplined spell to finish with figures of 2/7 from his four overs, effectively restricting the scoring during his time at the crease.
Botswana’s chase falls short despite late resistance
Chasing a target of 153, Botswana made a spirited attempt to overhaul the total. The innings began with promise, but the match turned decisively in the eighth over. The dismissal of Vinoo Balakrishnan, who fell with the team score at 61 in 7.2 overs, proved to be the pivotal moment of the contest. This breakthrough allowed Rwanda to tighten their grip on the game and apply pressure on the incoming batters.
Monroux Kasselman led the charge for Botswana, playing an aggressive knock of 57 off 32 balls to keep his side in the hunt. Despite his efforts and the support from Balakrishnan earlier in the innings, the required run rate eventually proved too steep. Rwanda’s bowling unit held their nerve in the closing stages, with Emile Rukiriza contributing to a disciplined defensive effort. Botswana finished their innings on 146/6, falling just six runs short of the target. Hamza Khan was named Player of the Match for his match-defining 93-run contribution.
