Nigeria vs Rwanda, 11th Match

The upcoming 11th match of the West Africa Trophy 2025 features a compelling T20 clash between Nigeria and Rwanda at the Nigeria Cricket Federation Oval 1. Nigeria has shown a solid track record with consistent performances in their recent games, leveraging aggressive batting and sharp bowling strategies. Their recent form includes wins in 3 of their last 5 matches, highlighting improvements in middle-order stability and death over bowling. Key players like Segun Olayinka and Chima Okere have been instrumental with bat and ball respectively, often providing crucial breakthroughs. Rwanda, on the other hand, has been a tough competitor, particularly noted for their fielding agility and disciplined bowling attack. Despite some inconsistency in batting, players like Eric Niyomugabo have stepped up as reliable scorers, and their spinner Jean-Claude Hakizimana brings wickets regularly. Historically, Nigeria holds a slight edge in head-to-head clashes, but Rwanda’s ability to adapt quickly to pitches and their fighting spirit makes them dangerous opponents. Strategically, Nigeria will aim to capitalize on home advantage by exploiting early swing and pace, while Rwanda might target spin-friendly phases and look to build partnerships through cautious starts. Overall, Nigeria’s recent upward trajectory at home combined with their balanced squad gives them the upper hand in conditions they know well, though Rwanda’s resilience cannot be overlooked.

Winning Probability: Nigeria: 58%, Rwanda: 42%

Given the Nigeria Cricket Federation Oval 1’s generally balanced pitch favoring both batsmen and bowlers, the first innings total is expected to be competitive. If Nigeria bat first, they can aim for 160-170 runs by leveraging their strong top order and middle overs hitting. Their batsmen have historically adapted well on this surface with an attacking approach that suits T20 dynamics. Conversely, Rwanda, batting first, will likely post a total in the range of 150-160 runs. Their batting lineup, though less explosive, tends to build steady partnerships, especially against pace bowling. Taking into account pitch conditions and typical scoring patterns here, teams winning the toss may prefer to chase, using dew factor in the evening to aid batting, making 155+ a par total once the pitch settles.

The pitch at Nigeria Cricket Federation Oval 1 is known for its balanced nature, offering assistance to both pacers and spinners across an innings. Historically, the average first innings score in T20 games here stands around 155 runs. Teams batting second have enjoyed a slight advantage with a win record for chasing sides at about 55%, aided by usually stable batting conditions under lights and dew presence. The atmosphere tends to be hot but with moderate humidity, with weather forecasts predicting clear skies and temperatures around 32°C, ideal for cricket. Best bowler on this ground (between the two teams) is Nigeria’s Chima Okere with multiple 3+ wicket hauls. Best batsman is Rwanda’s Eric Niyomugabo, whose highest individual score at this venue exceeds 60 runs. The highest team total recorded here in West Africa Trophy matches between Nigeria and Rwanda is Nigeria’s 172/6.

Matches Played	Nigeria Won	Rwanda Won
8	5	3

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches
Nigeria	W W L W L
Rwanda	L W L W W

Segun Olayinka (Nigeria): The batting powerhouse for Nigeria, Olayinka has scored heavily in recent matches, anchoring innings with aggressive stroke play and quick scoring rates.

Chima Okere (Nigeria): Leading wicket-taker, known for accurate seam bowling and clutch wickets in middle overs, he will be crucial in controlling Rwanda's batting.

Eric Niyomugabo (Rwanda): The dependable top-order batsman who provides steady starts and can accelerate if conditions allow; key for Rwanda’s chase strategy.

Jean-Claude Hakizimana (Rwanda): Skillful spinner with consistent wicket-taking ability and economy, essential in stifling Nigerian batsmen during middle overs.

Samuel Musa (Rwanda): Emerging all-rounder contributing both with useful runs down the order and timely breakthroughs with the ball, a player to watch closely.