The Nigeria women cricket team secured a historic spot in the 2027 Under-19 T20 World Cup by defeating Zimbabwe by 4 runs in a thrilling encounter. Remaining undefeated throughout the tournament, Nigeria became the only team to qualify from Africa, and they will now represent their continent alongside South Africa in the main tournament. The prestigious event is scheduled to be co-hosted by Bangladesh and Nepal.
Nigeria posts a fighting total on a tough pitch
Batting first after winning the toss, Nigeria posted 98 runs on a challenging pitch. Captain Christabel Chukwuonye led the charge with 21 runs, while Beauty Ogugua contributed 19 and Jessica Bieni added 15. For Zimbabwe, Christine Mutasa picked up two wickets and Tadiwanashe Garusa took one. Defending a modest target, the Nigerian bowlers kept the pressure on and eventually bowled out Zimbabwe with five balls to spare in the final over.
Nigerian bowlers seal a tight victory
Chasing a target of 99 runs, Zimbabwe kept themselves in the hunt until the very end. Salem Museka top-scored with 27 runs, while Bethel Jinyama chipped in with 21 and Nicolette Nyika scored 18. However, timely breakthroughs from the Nigerian bowling attack kept the run rate in check. Usen Peace was the most successful bowler, claiming 3 wickets, while Jennifer Godwin and Anointed Akhigbe picked up 2 wickets each to defend the small total and secure the win.
Tanzania and Namibia secure wins in playoffs
In the playoff matches, Tanzania defeated Kenya by 29 runs in the match for fifth place. Batting first, Tanzania scored 106 runs and then restricted Kenya to just 77 runs in 19 overs. Meanwhile, in the seventh-place playoff, Namibia secured a one-sided 9-wicket victory against Malawi. Malawi was bowled out for just 38 runs, a target that Namibia chased down comfortably in 5.1 overs.
