Tanzania to face Rwanda in semi-finals

DAR ES SALAAM: THE ICC Men’s U19 World Cup Africa Division 2 Qualifier is heating up as Tanzania’s U19 team prepares to face Rwanda’s U19 side in a highly anticipated semi-final clash at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) Oval today.

This match will determine who advances to the final and moves a step closer to securing a spot in the ICC Men’s U19 World Cup in Sri Lanka in 2026.

Tanzania has showcased exceptional form throughout the group stage, finishing top of Group B with a flawless record of six points from three consecutive victories.

Their impressive run included dominant wins over Ghana, Nigeria and Mozambique, establishing them as a formidable contender in the tournament.

Rwanda, on the other hand, secured their semi-final berth after a tightly contested battle in Group A.

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They concluded their group campaign with two points from a crucial victory in their do-or-die match, finishing just behind the top team, Sierra Leone.

The group stage was incredibly competitive, with Rwanda edging out Malawi and Botswana on net run rate—Rwanda’s advantage was a slim 0.00869, highlighting the close nature of the competition.

The other semi-final will be held at the Gymkhana Oval in Dar es Salaam, where Sierra Leone will face Nigeria.

Sierra Leone ended the group stage with a perfect record, winning all three of their matches against Rwanda, Malawi and Botswana to top Group A.

Nigeria, with four points, secured their place in the semi-finals by defeating Mozambique and Ghana.

The qualifiers, running from August 2nd to 11th, have been a showcase of emerging cricketing talent and enthusiasm across the continent.

With the top three teams from these qualifiers set to advance to the ICC Men’s U19 World Cup Africa Qualifier in 2025, the stakes are high.

As the tournament progresses, Tanzania and Sierra Leone remain a standout performer, inching closer to their goal of participating in the prestigious ICC Men’s U19 World Cup.

Their dominant performances so far underscore their potential to make a significant impact in the ongoing qualifiers.