The India High Commission in Nigeria and the Nigeria Cricket Federation continues to strengthen ties and diplomatic relations using a common denominator which is Cricket. The High Commission of India in Abuja organized a Friendship Cup in Commemoration of the 75th Independence of India.
The event which took place in Abuja on the 8th of August 2021 featured 4 teams namely, Yankari Tigers, Zuma Pioneers, Himalaya Warriors and Kaveri Lions. The format of the tournament was T-10 for the group stage and 15 overs for the finals.
First match was between Yankari Tigers and Zuma Pioneers with the former securing a 10 runs victory after scoring a total of 112 runs in 10 overs and Zuma Pioneers finishing for 102.
Gershon Yusuf was named Man of the Match.
The second match between Kaveri Lions and Himalaya Warriors were closely knitted till Pankaj Thiara stole the show with man of the match performance to help Himalaya Warriors secure a 7 wickets victory.
The final match between The Himalaya Warriors and the Yankari Tigers had most of the fans on the edge of their seats as the balance continue to alter between both teams until the usual suspect, Pankaj put the game to rest with 2 explosive overs to help his team overturn 103 deficit posted by the Yankari Tigers in the first innings.
Himalaya Warriors emerged champions for the tournament. Pankaj Thiara was names MVP of the series added to his 2 man of the match performances and Madan Sharma was named best Bowler of the tournament.
Special guest of honor for the event was the India High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E. Mr. Abhay Thakur and the Caretaker Committee Chairman, Nigeria Cricket Federation Prof. Yahaya Adam Ukwenya. Guest appearance was Master Joshua Sunday, one of the 2 Cricketers that participated in the 1 month high performance academy that took place 2019 in India, sponsored by the India High Commission in Nigeria.
Trophy and medals were presented to the winners and runners up while certificate of participation was given to all the participating teams.