CRICKET – BAHRAIN crushed hosts Rwanda by 112 runs yesterday in their Tri-Nations T20 clashes in Kigali, Rwanda.
In a spectacular display of power-hitting and disciplined bowling at Gahanga International Stadium, Bahrain posted a mammoth total before dismantling Rwanda’s batting lineup – a testament to the team’s all-round strength.
Winning the toss and opting to bowl first, Bahrain got off to a flying start thanks to opener Prashant Kurup, who smashed 13 off just 10 balls before falling in the fourth over.
However, the real fireworks came from Asif Ali and Fiaz Ahmed, who tore into Rwanda’s bowling attack with a scintillating 144-run partnership. Ali remained unbeaten on a blistering 100 off 55 balls, including five fours and nine sixes, showcasing his ability to dominate the bowlers. He was later declared as Player of the Match. Ahmed complemented him brilliantly with a rapid 78 off 42 balls, featuring three fours and seven sixes.
Bahrain finished their innings at a formidable 211/4, leaving Rwanda with a daunting chase.
The home side never gained momentum as Bahrain’s bowlers struck early and often. Opener Oscar Manishimwe fell for 13, and despite brief resistance from Didier Ndikubwimana (28 off 24), the innings collapsed under relentless pressure.
Abdul Majid was Bahrain’s standout bowler, claiming four wickets for just 19 runs in his four overs. Shashank Shukla (2/13) and Prashant Kurup (2/10) provided crucial support, ensuring Rwanda was bowled out for a meagre 99 in 19.4 overs.
Ali’s century and aggressive play controlled the innings and set the tone for Bahrain’s dominance, while Majid’s magic four-wicket spell dismantled Rwanda’s middle order, sealing the match. Sharp catches and tight fielding also kept Rwanda under constant pressure, helping Bahrain secure the commanding victory.
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