Rwanda vs Zambia, 13th Match

The upcoming 13th match of the West Africa Trophy 2025 between Rwanda and Zambia promises a competitive edge in the T20 format. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance in their recent outings. Rwanda has displayed a balanced approach with a strong middle order and a disciplined bowling attack that can exploit powerplay conditions effectively. Their key batter, Eric Niyomugabo, has been consistent, aggregating runs with a healthy strike rate while the spinner Claude Hakizimana has picked crucial wickets, impacting opposition momentum. Zambia, on the other hand, has relied heavily on aggressive power-hitters like Christopher Mpundu, whose explosive starts in the top order often set the tone. Their fast bowlers, especially Joseph Banda, have been instrumental in early breakthroughs. Head-to-head records indicate a fairly balanced rivalry, but Rwanda’s slightly better adaptability to sub-Saharan pitches could prove decisive. Strategically, Rwanda may opt to bat first to capitalize on steady pitch conditions while Zambia might look to chase, leveraging their aggressive batting lineup. Considering the combination of form, player impact, and tactical possibilities, Rwanda is marginally favored but Zambia’s firepower keeps them very much in contention.

Winning Probability: Rwanda: 54%, Zambia: 46%

If Rwanda bats first at the Nigeria Cricket Federation Oval 1, considering the pitch's balanced nature, an estimated total would be around 155-165 runs. Their middle order depth provides solidity, ensuring sensible acceleration in the death overs. Conversely, if Zambia bats first, leveraging their power-hitters, they are likely to post a target in the vicinity of 160-170. The pitch's even bounce and moderate boundary dimensions favor stroke play, with early wickets potentially putting pressure but generally allowing teams to aim for a competitive total in the mid-160s range during the first innings.

The Nigeria Cricket Federation Oval 1 offers a fairly true wicket with a bit of pace and bounce. Historically, average first-innings scores here hover around 158 in T20 matches with teams chasing winning approximately 48% of the time, reflecting a balanced contest between bat and ball. Weather on December 11 is expected to be dry with temperatures around 30°C and minimal chance of rain, offering consistent playing conditions. Best bowler on this ground in recent encounters between these teams is Rwanda's Claude Hakizimana, who has taken 8 wickets in 4 matches with an economy rate of 6.5. The highest run-scorer on this venue from either side is Zambia’s Christopher Mpundu, boasting a strike rate of 145, including a match best of 78*. Overall, the pitch rewards good line and length bowling with variable bounce and offers batters scope for power hitting in the last 5 overs.

Matches Played	Rwanda Wins	Zambia Wins
6	3	3

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches
Rwanda	W, L, W, W, L
Zambia	L, W, L, W, W

Eric Niyomugabo (Rwanda): Consistent run-scorer and anchor in the batting lineup, averaging 38.5 with an ability to accelerate in the death overs.

Claude Hakizimana (Rwanda): Leading spinner with multiple wickets in powerplay and middle overs, controlling opposition scoring flow.

Christopher Mpundu (Zambia): Explosive opening batsman known for quick starts, striking above 140 and match-defining innings.

Joseph Banda (Zambia): Fast bowler effective with early breakthroughs and maintaining tight economy in crucial phases.

Stephen Ngoma (Zambia): All-rounder who provides handy batting lower down and useful seam bowling options in the middle overs.