By Teddy Nwanunobi
Nigeria’s determination to secure qualification for the 2028 International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier C saw the West African record a commanding nine-wicket victory over Zambia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier C after chasing down a target of 143 runs in just 14.5 overs
Zambia posted 142 runs for the loss of nine wickets in their allotted 20 overs, but struggled to contain Nigeria’s batting lineup.
The Nigerian side responded impressively, reaching 146 runs for the loss of just one wicket in 14.5 overs to seal a comfortable victory.
The emphatic win underlined Nigeria’s dominance in the encounter and provided a significant boost to their campaign in the qualifying tournament.
Nigeria will now look to maintain their winning momentum as they continue their quest for a place in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
The tournament, scheduled from 20 to 25 October, is featuring teams competing for a place in the next stage of the qualification process for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
It will feature hosts, Nigeria, Uganda, Zambia, Lesotho, Mozambique, and The Gambia, competing in a round-robin format at the twin cricket ovals in Abuja.
A total of 15 matches will be played, with the top two teams advancing to the 2027 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier.
Nigeria captain, Akachukwu Chima, said his team had intensified preparations through training sessions and a series of competitive matches, expressing confidence that the hosts could win the tournament.
”We have been training hard, working hard and playing a lot of series. The boys are motivated, and our goal is to win it,” Chima said at the pre-tournament press conference in Abuja on Monday.
He added that the support of the coaching staff and Nigerian fans would provide additional motivation for the team.
Chima also identified familiarity with local conditions as an advantage for Nigeria.
”We know the ground and the outfield because we have been here for a couple of months. I think that is a big advantage for us because we are playing on home soil,” he said.