U19 WC: Nigeria Women Triumph in Thrilling Finish Against Ireland

Synopsis

On January 29, Nigeria's U19 women's team secured an exhilarating six-run victory against Ireland in the T20 World Cup, concluding their campaign successfully. The match took place at the YSD-UKM Cricket Oval in Bangi, showcasing remarkable performances, particularly from Lillian Ude, who was named Player of the Match.

Key Takeaways

Nigeria finishes third in Super Six Group 2.
Key performances by Christabel Chukwuonye and Lillian Ude.
Ireland unable to surpass New Zealand in group standings.
Nigeria posted a total of 94 runs.
Ude recognized as Player of the Match for her all-round performance.

Bangi, Jan 29 (NationPress) Nigeria concluded their U19 women's T20 World Cup journey on a high note, securing a six-run victory over Ireland in their super six match at the YSD-UKM Cricket Oval on Wednesday.

This victory placed Nigeria in third position in Super Six Group 2, while Ireland's loss left them at the bottom of the group, unable to climb past New Zealand.

After a sluggish beginning, Nigeria managed to post a challenging total of 94 after Niamh MacNulty won the toss and opted to bowl. Kia McCartney was the standout bowler for Ireland, achieving figures of 2-13 from four overs.

With the early loss of key player Victory Igbinedion in the first over and struggling at 18/3 within five overs, Christabel Chukwuonye (25) spearheaded Nigeria's recovery, alongside contributions from Omosigho Eguakun (17) and late bursts from Peculiar Agboya and Lilian Ude.

In their chase, Ireland faced an early blow, losing a wicket in the first over. However, Freya Sargent and Rebecca Lowe steadied the innings, bringing the score to 30-2 by the end of the powerplay. Despite some late resistance from Millie Spence and Kia McCartney, Nigeria maintained control by taking regular wickets.

Nigeria ultimately managed to hold off the late pressure, bowling out Ireland for 88 and clinching a narrow 6-run victory.

Lillian Ude emerged as the standout performer with figures of 3/11, while Peace Usen and Anointed Akhigbe contributed with two wickets each. For her all-round performance, including a vital 12 off 11 runs with the bat, Ude was awarded the Player of the Match.