The Zimbabwe Women High Performance Centre (HPC) team secured a memorable victory at the 2026 Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament after edging hosts Rwanda Women by just one run in a dramatic final in Kigali.

The young Zimbabwean side held their nerve in a tense finish to complete an impressive campaign, overcoming several senior international teams on their way to the title.

After electing to bat, Zimbabwe Women HPC faced early pressure as openers Nyasha Gwanzura and Kelly Ndiraya fell without scoring. Lorraine Pemhiwa and Betty Mangachena steadied the innings with a crucial 37-run partnership, with Pemhiwa contributing a quick 31 off 26 balls.

Runyararo Pasipanodya then anchored the innings with a composed unbeaten 45 from 35 deliveries, supported by Adel Zimunhu’s 20, as Zimbabwe posted 126 for six from their 20 overs.

Rwanda’s chase began disastrously, with disciplined Zimbabwean bowling reducing the hosts to 36 for six by the 10th over. However, Henriette Ishimwe launched a stunning fightback, smashing an unbeaten 60 from 38 balls to keep Rwanda’s hopes alive until the final delivery.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers maintained their composure under pressure, with Lindokuhle Mabhero, Zimunhu and Salem Museka taking two wickets each to secure a one-run victory.

The title caps a standout tournament for Zimbabwe Women HPC, who won six of their eight group matches before defeating Rwanda in the final.

The triumph highlights the growing strength of women’s cricket in Zimbabwe and the success of the country’s high-performance pathway in developing future international stars.