Rwanda vs Botswana, 5th Match, Africa Continental Cup 2024

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Match Preview

The 5th match of the Africa Continental Cup 2024 is set to take place on December 6, 2024, at the scenic Gahanga International Cricket Stadium in Kigali City. The match will feature Rwanda taking on Botswana, with the home team looking to capitalize on their familiarity with the conditions. The game is scheduled to start at 9:15 AM local time, which is 7:15 AM GMT.

Team Analysis

Rwanda

• Rwanda has a distinct edge due to their familiarity with the Gahanga pitch and conditions.
• The home team boasts a balanced lineup, with several players contributing both with the bat and ball.
• Rwanda's spinners are likely to play a crucial role, given the pitch's tendency to aid tweakers.

Botswana

• Botswana has power hitters in their lineup who can take advantage of the shorter boundaries at the Gahanga International Cricket Stadium.
• Their fast bowlers are effective on hard tracks, but they might need to adjust to the conditions in Kigali.
• Despite being underdogs, Botswana has a history of fighting back in challenging situations.

Pitch Analysis

The Gahanga International Cricket Stadium pitch is slow and spin-friendly, favoring bowlers who can vary their pace. Batters need to focus on strike rotation, as boundary-hitting can be challenging due to low bounce. Scores of 150-160 are competitive in T20s, and winning the toss and batting first is ideal. The pitch slows further in the second innings, making it crucial for teams to set a competitive total.

Weather Condition

The weather for the match on December 6, 2024, at Gahanga International Cricket Stadium is expected to be clear and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C. No rain is anticipated, and a light breeze will prevail, making for ideal cricketing conditions.

Head-to-Head Records

Rwanda and Botswana have a limited head-to-head record, with both teams having won 2 matches each in their previous 4 encounters. However, the current form and competition results will provide a better insight into their performances.

Probable Playing XI

Rwanda: Zappy Bimenyimana, Martin Akayezu, Israel Mugisha, Ignace Ntirenganya, Eric Kubwimana, Emile Rukiriza, Oscar Manishimwe, Didier Ndikubwimana, Yves Cyusa, Muhammad Nadir, Clinton Rubagumya

Botswana: Moloki Mooketsi, Michael Badenhorst, Katlo Piet, Boemo Khumalo, Boemo Kgosiemang, Valentine Mbazo, Monroux Kasselman, Thatayaone Tshose, Tharindu Perera, Karabo Motlhanka, Vinoo Balakrishnan

Match Prediction

Based on current form, Botswana appears to have a better chance of winning, given their recent performances. However, Rwanda can still surprise if they manage to perform better with the bat and execute tighter bowling strategies. The match is expected to be an exciting encounter, with both teams looking to capitalize on the conditions and gain an edge in the tournament.

Prediction: Botswana to win.

Recommended Fantasy XI:

• Batters: Katlo Piet, Thatayaone Tshose, Zappy Bimenyimana
• All-Rounders: Karabo Motlhanka, Clinton Rubagumya
• Bowlers: Vinoo Balakrishnan, Yves Cyusa, Muhammad Nadir
• Wicket-Keeper: Moloki Mooketsi