In a spectacular display of youthful talent, 15-year-old Rwandan cricketer Fanny Utagushimaninde has rewritten the history books with a record-shattering performance at the Nigeria Invitational Women’s T20 Tournament in Lagos. The opening batter scored an unbeaten 111 runs from just 65 deliveries on her international debut, propelling Rwanda to a commanding 122-run victory against Ghana.
Utagushimaninde’s remarkable innings established two significant international records: she became the youngest woman ever to score a Twenty20 international century at 15 years and 223 days, surpassing the previous record held by Uganda’s Prosscovia Alako. Additionally, her 111-run tally now stands as the highest individual score by any woman on their T20 debut, exceeding Australian Karen Rolton’s 96 against England in 2005.
The teenage prodigy reached her century in the 18th over with a clip through mid-wicket off Ghana seamer Elizabeth Annor, completing the milestone in just 59 balls. Her dominant performance helped Rwanda post an imposing total of 210-3 from their 20 overs, which proved insurmountable for Ghana who managed only 88-8 in response.
Utagushimaninde, who developed her skills through a schools program supported by the Marylebone Cricket Club Foundation, described the achievement as “a dream” moment in her cricketing journey. She attributed her success to relentless hard work, confidence, and passion for the sport while expressing gratitude to coaches, teammates, and supporters.
Rwanda coach Leonard Nhamburo praised the historic performance as a testament to both Utagushimaninde’s dedication and the growing development of cricket in Rwanda. The record for youngest men’s T20 century remains with France’s Gustav Mckeon, who was 18 years and 280 days when he scored 109 against Switzerland in 2022.