Bahrain vs Malawi – T20I Match Preview – July 27, 2025

Series: Rwanda T20I TriSeries, 2025
Venue: Gahanga International Cricket Stadium, Kigali, Rwanda
Date & Time: Sunday, July 27, 2025 – 16:30 PM (GMT)
Format: T20 International
Broadcast: Live on FanCode

Match Context

The final of the Rwanda T20I TriSeries, 2025 is set to take place on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at the Gahanga International Cricket Stadium in Kigali. The match will feature Bahrain versus Malawi, the two teams that have emerged as the top performers in the group stage.

This clash is the culmination of a 13-match tournament that has showcased some thrilling cricket from all three participating teams – Bahrain, Malawi, and Rwanda. With the two finalists vying for the title, the atmosphere is expected to be electric as cricket fans in Rwanda and beyond look forward to a high-stakes encounter.

Group Stage Performance

Bahrain

Bahrain has been in dominant form throughout the tournament, winning 10 out of 12 matches and finishing at the top of the standings. Their performances have been characterized by explosive batting and clinical bowling. Key players like Imran Majeed and Usman Arshad have delivered consistently with the bat, while the bowling attack, led by Muhammad Haseeb, has been instrumental in tight finishes and early dismissals.

Their ability to chase down big totals and restrict opponents to sub-par scores has made them a formidable side in the tournament.

Malawi

Malawi, on the other hand, has had a remarkable turnaround in the latter stages of the series. After a shaky start, they won 4 out of their last 6 matches, including a notable 9-wicket win in the 12th match of the tournament. Their batting depth and aggressive middle-order have been key to their resurgence, with Kudakwashe Kufakwandi and Joseph Mungofe being standout performers.

Their spinners have also adapted well to the conditions in Kigali, and if they can maintain discipline and exploit the right moments, they could trouble the Bahrain batters.

Venue Conditions

The Gahanga International Cricket Stadium in Kigali has been a neutral and consistent venue throughout the tournament. The pitch is generally balanced, offering some assistance to both batters and bowlers. The overcast conditions and altitude could play a role in swing and spin, making it a crucial factor for both teams.

Teams batting first have had a slight edge, but the aggressive T20 format means that even chases are achievable if the batting unit is in sync.

Key Matchup Factors

• Bahrain’s Explosive Powerplay Batsmen vs Malawi’s Tight Bowling Lineup
• Malawi’s Spin Options vs Bahrain’s Middle-Order Depth
• Momentum and Psychological Edge: Bahrain has been dominant, while Malawi has found form at the right time.

Team News

• Bahrain: Expected to field their strongest XI, relying on their winning formula of aggressive batting and tight bowling.
• Malawi: Likely to bring in their spinners and all-rounders to exploit the conditions and counter Bahrain's firepower.

Predicted XI

Bahrain (Predicted XI):
Imran Majeed (C), Usman Arshad, Muhammad Haseeb, Muhammad Imran, Salman Irshad, Muhammad Nadeem, Shahzaib Khan, Muhammad Bilal, Usman Malik, Muhammad Sohail, and Muhammad Irfan.

Malawi (Predicted XI):
Kudakwashe Kufakwandi (C), Joseph Mungofe, Richard Mwakamaka, Bright Chisita, David Mbuya, Collins Mabika, Tonderai Chari, Jonathan Mungofe, Bright Muteyi, and Mwizenge Chirisa.

Match Prediction

Bahrain has been the most consistent team in the tournament, with a strong batting lineup and a disciplined bowling attack. However, Malawi's late surge and ability to adapt to conditions could make this a close contest.

Prediction:
Bahrain to win by a narrow margin, with a target of 150-160 being a key benchmark for the match.

How to Watch

The final of the Rwanda T20I TriSeries, 2025 will be live streamed on FanCode. Fans can also follow live scores, commentary, and updates via the FanCode app and website.

Conclusion

The final between Bahrain and Malawi promises to be a thrilling encounter in the Rwanda T20I TriSeries, 2025. With both teams having shown their strengths in different parts of the tournament, it's a match that will test their mettle and determination. The outcome will depend on which side can execute their game plan better under pressure.

Cricket fans, mark your calendars for Sunday, July 27, 2025 at 16:30 GMT – it's time for the final showdown in Kigali!
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