Nigeria U19 impress in inaugural World Cup campaign, outclass New Zealand and Ireland in thrilling wins

Nigeria’s journey to the ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup 2025 was nothing short of extraordinary. Led by their inspirational skipper, Lucky Piety, the young brigade made history by securing their maiden qualification for the prestigious tournament. Their path was filled with challenges, yet their resilience, determination, and teamwork saw them rise to the occasion, leaving an indelible mark on the world stage.

Nigeria U19 impress in inaugural World Cup campaign, outclass New Zealand and Ireland in thrilling wins
Nigeria U19 impress in inaugural World Cup campaign, outclass New Zealand and Ireland in thrilling wins

The Road to Malaysia – Dominance in the Africa Qualifiers

The Nigerian team’s journey began at the ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers, held in Kigali. With eight teams vying for a coveted spot in the World Cup, Nigeria found themselves in Group B alongside Rwanda, Tanzania, and Malawi. Under Lucky Piety’s leadership, they emerged as the dominant force, maintaining an unbeaten run throughout the group stage.

Their campaign kicked off with emphatic victories, including a thrilling one-wicket win against Zimbabwe, which later proved crucial. In the semi-finals, they outclassed Rwanda, securing a massive 62-run victory to book a spot in the final. However, the much-anticipated final against Zimbabwe was washed out due to rain. As per tournament regulations, Nigeria progressed to the ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup 2025 based on their superior record in the league stage.

For the first time in history, the Nigerian Under-19 women’s team had earned their place in the global event.

The Grand Stage – Nigeria’s Journey in the ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup 2025

Stepping onto the world stage for the first time, Nigeria was placed in Group C alongside South Africa, New Zealand, and Samoa. Their debut, however, was marred by rain as their opening match against Samoa was washed out without a ball being bowled.

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In their second group-stage encounter against New Zealand, weather disruptions resulted in a shortened 13-over contest. Batting first, Nigeria posted 65/6, with skipper Lucky Piety (19 off 25) and Lillian Udeh (18 off 22) leading the charge. Despite their efforts, New Zealand could not chase down the target, handing Nigeria their first win of the tournament. Courtesy of their bowlers Nigeria stunned New Zealand and proved everyone that they are here to stay.

Their final group-stage clash against South Africa was another rain-affected affair. Batting first, South Africa managed 49/2 before rain interrupted play. With a revised target of 66 runs via the DLS method, Nigeria struggled against a disciplined South African bowling attack, finishing at 24/8. The 41-run defeat, however, did not end their campaign as they progressed to the Super Six stage, finishing second in Group C.

Super Six Stage – Nigeria’s Fighting Spirit

In the Super Six stage, Nigeria’s resilience was tested once again. Their first match against England was abandoned due to rain, leaving them with one final opportunity to make a statement.

That moment arrived when they faced Ireland in a must-win clash. Nigeria, after being sent into bat, posted a competitive total of 94/7 in their 20 overs. Christabel Chukwuonye (25 off 42) and Omosigho Eguakun (17 off 23) played crucial knocks, while a late 26-run partnership between Lillian Udeh (12 off 11) and Peculiar Agboya (17* off 20) propelled them closer to the 100-run mark.

Defending 95, Nigeria’s bowlers displayed nerves of steel. Lillian Udeh delivered a sensational spell, picking up 3/11 in four overs, while Annointed Akhigbe (2/8), Usen Peace (2/21), and Muhibet Amusa (1/16) ensured Ireland never settled. Their relentless attack bundled out Ireland for 88, sealing a thrilling 6-run victory. Udeh’s all-round brilliance earned her the Player of the Match award, marking a historic moment for Nigeria in their maiden ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup campaign.

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A campaign to remember

Though Nigeria bowed out of the tournament after the Super Six stage, they left with their heads held high. Their ability to compete against established teams, their historic victory over Ireland, and their unwavering fighting spirit turned them into a team to watch for the future.

From an unbeaten run in the Africa Qualifiers to a dream debut in the ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup, Nigeria’s journey was a testament to their passion, determination, and skill. With this experience under their belt, they will undoubtedly return stronger, ready to take on the world once again.

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