Rwandan cricket teams' performances on the international stage in the most recent competitions has been a tale of mixed fortunes, showcasing both achievements and areas that demand improvement.
Cricket in Rwanda has undoubtedly made significant strides, with the sport rapidly gaining popularity and taking roots in schools and clubs (first and second divisions) across the country. Being a cricket enthusiast and former player, my connection with Rwandan cricket is both personal and emotional.
Knowing where the sport has come from and where it is at the moment, I surely can't complain but only wish for more of the same and better. For anyone that has followed the Rwandan cricket journey over the years, the story is quite extraordinary. If I am to be generous with words, I would say, it has been a story of "grass to grace" as the saying goes.
However, recent performances on the international stage, particularly the setbacks faced by both the men and women's teams highlight the challenges that the Rwanda Cricket Association (RCA) must address to close the gap with more established cricketing nations on the continent.
Despite a commendable victory over Uganda in the African Cricket Association (ACA) T20 Africa Cup Finals League, the subsequent setbacks against Malawi and Mozambique, coupled with a lackluster display at the T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Namibia, indicate that there is significant ground to cover for Rwandan cricket to consistently compete at the highest level.
The triumph over Uganda undoubtedly displayed the potential and talent within the Rwandan men's team but failure to build on it, shows how far Rwanda is from being considered consistent performers and indeed serious competitors.
On the women's front, the failure to advance beyond the group stage in the T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Entebbe, Uganda, is indicative of the challenges faced by the women's team.
This is no criticism by any means, and I would be the last person to cast stones at our boys and girls or the people running the sport behind the scenes.
The excitement following the men's team's promising start at the ACA T20 Africa Cup finals, defeating Uganda, was unfortunately short-lived as they faltered against Malawi and Mozambique, ultimately missing out on a spot in the semi-finals.
This disappointment followed a lackluster showing at the 2024 T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Namibia, where they failed to secure a victory, managing only a draw against Nigeria.
Similarly, the women's team's inability to win a single game at the T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Uganda underscores the need for a comprehensive assessment of the current state of Rwandan cricket.
While the failure at recent tournaments is not a doomsday scenario, it does shed light on the considerable gap that exists between Rwanda and cricketing powerhouses like Uganda, Kenya and Namibia.
One key aspect that requires attention is the development of talent at the grassroots level. Rwanda has successfully introduced cricket in schools, laying a foundation for the sport's growth but a lot more still needs to be done.
Sustained investment in youth development programs, talent identification, and coaching at the grassroots level is imperative. The establishment of robust cricket structures in schools is essential to cultivate a pool of skilled players who can seamlessly transition into higher levels of competition.
Moreover, while RCA has accomplished commendable feats with limited government assistance, increased support from both the public and private sectors is crucial. Adequate funding can facilitate advanced training programs and international exposure for players.
Construction of the Gahanga Cricket Stadium is quite a statement of RCA's intent and long term vision for a sport that was barely known in the country 15 years ago.
Strategic planning and collaboration with experienced cricketing nations can also play a pivotal role in Rwanda's cricketing journey. Partnerships for friendly matches, training camps and coaching exchanges with countries like South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, Namibia and co. can provide invaluable insights and exposure.
Learning from the successes and challenges of established cricketing nations can contribute to the overall improvement of Rwandan cricket, for which the local sport's governing body (RCA) has done a commendable job.
Additionally, fostering a cricket culture beyond the playing field is essential. Roma wasn't built in a day and Rwandan cricket will need time, patience and resources to be at a level of the likes of Uganda, Kenya or Namibia. As for South Africa and Zimbabwe, these are at another level.
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While Rwanda has made remarkable progress in establishing cricket as a major sport in the country, recent international performances highlight areas that require attention and improvement.
The RCA's continued dedication to grassroots development, increased financial support, strategic partnerships, and fostering a cricket culture will be pivotal in closing the gap with the afore-mentioned ICC-affiliated nations.
Much as we can't celebrate failure but we can't also fail to recognize the considerable strides the sport has taken from the days when it was never taken seriously as a national sport by the government as recently as 2006 to a point where cricket is probably the only self-reliant sport in the country.
The journey ahead may be challenging, but with a comprehensive and collaborative approach, Rwandan cricket can aspire to compete consistently at the highest levels and solidify its place on the international cricketing map.
