Kolkata – Nigeria held their nerve in a tightly contested final against Zimbabwe at the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier, securing a four-run victory to complete an unbeaten campaign.
The triumph in Dar es Salaam also sealed Nigeria’s qualification for next year’s ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, which will be hosted by Bangladesh and Nepal.
Nigeria posted 98 in the first innings before producing a disciplined bowling performance to dismiss Zimbabwe for 94 with just one ball remaining, securing Africa’s sole qualification spot for next year’s tournament. They will represent the continent alongside South Africa at the tournament.
Skipper Christabel Chukwuonye’s knock of 21 was crucial in helping Nigeria post a competitive total. Beauty Oguai (19) and Jessica Bieni (15) also made valuable contributions with the bat. For Zimbabwe, Christine Mutasa picked up two wickets, while Tadiwanashe Garutsa claimed one wicket.
In reply, Salem Museka (27), Bethel Zinyama (21) and Nicolette Nyika (18) produced important knocks for Zimbabwe, but they ultimately fell four runs short. Usen Peace led Nigeria’s bowling effort with three wickets, while Jennifer Godwin and Annointed Akhigbe claimed two wickets apiece.
“I actually cried when the game was over because I couldn’t really express what I was feeling. The next phase is just the beginning and we know it will be tougher. My team has really been the best.” said an emotional Nigeria captain Christabel Chukwuonye.
“They listened to the coaches, stayed united and, even with the pressure in the last over, they were able to hold their nerves. I wouldn’t be here holding this trophy without the support of the coaching crew and my players. I am very grateful to all of them.”
Meanwhile, Uganda finished third in the competition after securing a convincing seven-wicket victory over Rwanda. Uganda successfully chased down the target of 74 in just 16.1 overs, losing only three wickets in the process.
Hosts Tanzania finished fifth after recording a solid 29-run victory over Kenya in the fifth-place play-off. Batting first, Tanzania posted 106 before bowling out Kenya for 77 in 19 overs.
Namibia finished seventh following a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over Malawi. Namibia bowled out Malawi for just 38 in 12.2 overs before chasing down the target in only 5.1 overs.
