The 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF) Gateway2024, held in Ogun State, witnessed a vibrant display of cricketing talent across three venues, with athletes from across the country competing fiercely in a trio of exciting formats—T20, 50 overs (modified to T10), and the fast-paced 6-a-side event. Despite the tight schedule, which led to the adjustment of the 50-over matches to a T10 format, the players’ energy, spirit, and passion remained undiminished.
Cricket Events and Results
T20 Format:
The traditional 20-over matches saw Edo State clinch gold in both the male and female categories, showcasing their depth and consistency. Kaduna and Lagos followed closely, with silver in the male and female categories, respectively. Oyo (male) and Akwa Ibom (female) secured the bronze medals, capping impressive runs in the competition.
- Gold: Male – Edo | Female – Edo
- Silver: Male – Kaduna | Female – Lagos
- Bronze: Male – Oyo | Female – Akwa Ibom
T10 Format (Modified from 50 Overs):
The shortened 10-over format brought explosive performances and high-paced excitement. Once again, Edo State emerged dominant, grabbing gold in both the male and female events. Oyo (male) and Akwa Ibom (female) earned silver, while Kaduna (male) and Ebonyi (female) completed the podium with bronze medals.
- Gold: Male – Edo | Female – Edo
- Silver: Male – Oyo | Female – Akwa Ibom
- Bronze: Male – Kaduna | Female – Ebonyi
6-a-Side Format:
The final event, played in the dynamic 6-a-side format, saw Edo State (male) and Ebonyi State (female) take top honours. Kaduna continued their impressive showing with double silver in both categories, while Imo (male) and Ogun (female) delighted their supporters with bronze medals.
- Gold: Male – Edo | Female – Ebonyi
- Silver: Male – Kaduna | Female – Kaduna
- Bronze: Male – Imo | Female – Ogun
A Celebration of Growth and Competition
This edition of the National Sports Festival reaffirmed cricket’s rising popularity and competitive depth in Nigeria. The diversity of medal-winning states reflects the sport’s growth beyond traditional strongholds. Edo State’s clean sweep of the male categories and double gold in female events marked them as the standout team of the festival.
Ogun State’s role as host was commendable, with matches spread across three venues, ensuring smooth logistics and an electrifying atmosphere throughout the competition. The event also served as a platform for emerging talents and a testament to the ongoing development of cricket nationwide.
As the sun sets on the 22nd NSF, the cricket community celebrates the winners and the spirit of unity, fair play, and progress that the sport continues to foster in Nigeria.
