Nigeria U19 Women Shine in Warm-Up Matches: Tough Loss to Pakistan, Commanding Win Against Scotland

Nigeria U19 Women Gain Momentum in Warm-Up Matches Ahead of ICC Women’s U19 World Cup

The Nigeria U19 Women’s Cricket Team has concluded their warm-up matches for the ICC Women’s U19 World Cup with a mix of valuable lessons and a statement victory. Playing against Pakistan and Scotland, the team showcased resilience and potential, giving fans a glimpse of what to expect in the main tournament.

In a closely contested game at the UKM Oval in Bangi, Nigeria pushed Pakistan to their limits. Bowling first, the Nigerian attack restricted Pakistan to 105/6, with disciplined bowling efforts keeping the score within reach. Nigeria’s chase began confidently, reaching 79/1 after 16 overs, but Pakistan’s Quratulain (2/9 in 4 overs) derailed the effort with a superb spell, leaving Nigeria 11 runs short at 94/6.

Coach Sarah Bakhita reflected on the match, saying, “The warm-up matches have hinted at what we should expect at the tournament proper. Game-winning builds confidence, and we hope to perform better in the coming games.”

Bouncing back strongly, Nigeria delivered a clinical performance against Scotland at the Royal Selangor Club. The bowling unit dominated, skittling Scotland for 62 runs in 17.5 overs. Lilian Ude’s 3/15, supported by early breakthroughs from Peace Usen and Muhibat Amusa, ensured Scotland never gained momentum despite Pippa Sproul’s 25-run contribution.

In response, Nigeria’s captain, Piety, led from the front, smashing an unbeaten 28 off 16 balls, including three sixes. Victory Igbinedion added a steady 25, sealing the victory in just 11.3 overs with seven wickets in hand.

Nigeria, drawn in Group C, will face Samoa on January 18, 3:30 AM (WAT), New Zealand on January 20, 3:30 AM (WAT), and South Africa on January 22, 7:30 AM (WAT). The team’s performance in the warm-up matches underscores their readiness to compete on the global stage.

With the confidence gained from these matches, Nigeria’s young stars are set to make an impact at the tournament proper, turning their preparations into success on the field.