By Aaior K. Comfort

Nigeria’s U19 Women’s Cricket team achieved a decisive victory over Malawi, winning by 86 runs in the Africa U19 World Cup qualifiers held in Rwanda. This triumph secured Nigeria’s top position in Group B, marking their third consecutive win in the tournament.

In the match at Gahanga B cricket oval, Nigeria won the toss and chose to bat first. Opening batter Victory Igbinedion played a pivotal role, scoring 66 runs off 72 balls, while Promise Eguakun added 27 runs from 20 balls. Nigeria concluded their innings with a total of 147 runs for the loss of four wickets.

In response, Nigeria’s bowlers effectively restricted Malawi to 61 runs all out in just 18.1 overs, ensuring a convincing win.

With this victory, Nigeria is set to face Rwanda, the runner-up in Group A, in a highly anticipated semifinal clash. The tournament features eight teams, with the top team earning a place in the World Cup scheduled in Malaysia for 2025.