Nigeria Opens U19 Cricket World Cup With A Win

By: Gyang Dakwo

Nigeria’s cricket team made their ICC U19 World Cup debut in thrilling fashion, defeating New Zealand in a tense two-run victory. Their opening match against Samoa had been washed out, making their first game even more crucial.

Facing a formidable New Zealand side that reached the semi-finals in 2023, Nigeria showed immense grit. In the 13-over reduced game, they scored 66 runs, with captain Piety Lucky (18) and Lilian Ude (19) contributing key runs.

New Zealand’s chase was equally dramatic, with identical high scores and wickets lost. Three run-outs underlined the pressure, and Ude’s brilliant final over ensured Nigeria’s victory in their first-ever World Cup match.

“This is a very special moment for us,” said Lucky. “There were a lot of catches, a lot of running between the wickets that I could not have done alone.

“The Nigeria camp is very excited about this win. The New Zealand side are a very good side, so we are very excited for this moment.

“Well played from the team, everyone did their best and it was a collective effort from everybody.

“We have been training for a long time. Back in the qualifiers we had so many things to do back home and work on and of course work on our weaknesses as well as our strengths.

“With our resources we have been able to pull off this win and it has been teamwork.

“Our own strategy in the Nigeria camp is one game at a time, we have taken one and there is still more to come.”

Nigeria now aims to build on its success and continue its remarkable journey in the tournament.