Fanny Utagushimaninde: Rwanda Star Becomes Youngest Women’s T20 Centurion

Rwanda’s rising cricket star Fanny Utagushimaninde has etched her name into the history books after becoming the youngest woman ever to score a century in a Twenty20 international match.

At just 15 years and 223 days old, Utagushimaninde delivered a record-breaking performance on her debut, scoring an unbeaten 111 runs to lead Rwanda to a dominant victory over Ghana at the Nigeria Invitational Women’s T20 Tournament in Lagos.

A Record-Breaking Debut

Opening the batting for Rwanda, Utagushimaninde showcased remarkable composure and maturity beyond her years, reaching her century in just 59 balls before finishing on 111 not out from 65 deliveries.

Her innings powered Rwanda to a commanding total of 210-3 in 20 overs, setting the tone for a comprehensive 122-run victory over Ghana, who were restricted to 88-8.

In the process, she broke the previous record held by Prosscovia Alako, who was 16 years and 233 days old when she scored a T20 century in 2019.

Utagushimaninde also set another milestone, recording the highest score ever by a ქალი on T20 international debut, surpassing the previous best of 96 set by Australia’s Karen Rolton.

“A Dream Come True”

Reflecting on her historic performance, Utagushimaninde described the moment as surreal.

“It was a special moment for me and my cricket journey. A dream to achieve it on my debut at 15,” she said.

“This shows my hard work, confidence and passion for the game. I’m grateful for the support from my coaches, team-mates and everyone around me.”

Her performance not only highlights her individual talent but also reflects the rapid development of women’s cricket in Rwanda.

A Product of Grassroots Development

Utagushimaninde’s rise is closely tied to Rwanda’s growing investment in youth cricket programs, particularly initiatives supported by the Marylebone Cricket Club Foundation, which has played a key role in nurturing young talent through school-based programs.

Rwanda’s head coach Leonard Nhamburo praised her achievement as a reflection of years of dedication and structured development.

“This record-breaking performance is a testament to the hard work and dedication she has put in,” he said. “It shows how development cricket is progressing in Rwanda.”

A New Generation Emerging

Utagushimaninde’s achievement places her among a new wave of young cricketers reshaping the global game.

While France’s Gustav Mckeon remains the youngest male T20 centurion, her record now stands as a landmark moment in women’s cricket.

Her performance signals more than just individual brilliance — it represents the emergence of new cricketing nations and the growing competitiveness of the sport beyond traditional powerhouses.

What Comes Next

At just 15, Utagushimaninde’s journey is only beginning.

Her debut century has not only set records but also raised expectations for what she can achieve in the years ahead.

For Rwanda, her performance is a powerful statement of progress. For the sport, it is a reminder that the future of cricket is becoming increasingly global — and increasingly young.

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