Nigeria’s Female Yellow Greens Beat Malawi to Earn First Win at Kwibuka T20 Cricket Tournament

Nigeria’s Female YellowGreens secured their first win at the 2026 Kwibuka T20 Tournament with a 52‑run victory over Malawi at the Gahanga 2 Cricket Oval in Kigali on Wednesday.

Malawi sent Nigeria in to bat, and the YellowGreens posted a competitive 98 for 8 in 20 overs. Jessica Bieni led the chase with an unbeaten 25, while Sarah Etim (14), Favour Eseigbe (11) and Christabel Chukwuonye (11) contributed to a steady recovery after early setbacks.

Malawi’s bowlers were headed by Lucky Malino, who took four wickets, but Nigeria’s lower‑order resilience helped them reach a challenging total.

In reply, Nigeria’s bowlers and fielders delivered a clinical performance, dismissing Malawi for just 46 runs in 10.3 overs to secure a comprehensive win.

Player of the match Shola Adekunle led the attack with figures of 3 for 15, while Henrietta Mbam claimed 2 for 16. Captain Favour Eseigbe finished with remarkable figures of 2 for 0, taking two wickets in three deliveries.

After the match, captain Favour Eseigbe praised her team’s resilience and fighting spirit, noting that although they fell short of their initial batting target, they remained determined throughout the game.

“Our plan was to score above 120, but credit must go to the Malawi bowlers because they bowled well and troubled our batters. However, we had a Plan B. We never give up until the game is over,” she said. “Even when batting became difficult, we stayed patient, used our legs, rotated the strike and found ways to keep the scoreboard moving. Regardless of what total we ended up with, we were prepared to defend it.”

“One of the biggest positives from this match is the team’s mindset. We don’t relent when things get hard; we keep searching for solutions because sometimes a breakthrough comes when you least expect it.”

“I want to give credit to my teammates and coaching staff. The coaches were incredibly supportive and always believed in us. Before the second innings even started, the players knew it was going to be a battle, and everyone was ready to fight for the team. That determination showed on the field, and thankfully we came out victorious.”

The win gives Nigeria a much‑needed boost as they prepare for their next match against Brazil at the Gahanga A Oval this morning (Thursday) at 9:30 AM.

With renewed confidence, Nigeria looks to build momentum for the remainder of the competition.