Nigeria Debuts at ICC Women’s U-19 Cricket World Cup

Nigeria Set to Make Debut at ICC Women’s U-19 Cricket World Cup in Malaysia

The maiden ICC Women’s U-19 Cricket World Cup, held in South Africa, has been hailed as a massive success by the ICC Women’s Cricket Manager, Snehal Pradhan. Speaking about the impact of the tournament, Pradhan emphasized its role as a “springboard” for the upcoming second edition, set to be hosted by Malaysia from January 18 to February 2, 2025.

Nigeria Among Four Debutants

Nigeria is among four debuting nations in the 16-country tournament, which aims to showcase the next generation of women cricketers. Notably, Nigeria’s Junior Female Yellow Greens earned their spot by edging Zimbabwe to claim Africa’s ticket.

Key players such as Captain Piety Lucky, Lillian Udeh, Peculiar Agboya, and Christabel Chukwuonye bring invaluable experience to the team. These players were instrumental in Nigeria’s historic bronze medal victory at the African Games in Ghana and are expected to bolster the U-19 team in Malaysia.

Tournament Significance

Pradhan highlighted the tournament’s importance in fostering equity and developing talent pathways in women’s cricket:

“This tournament provides players an opportunity to make their names at U-19 level before advancing to senior international cricket.”

The inaugural edition marked the largest women’s tournament organized by the ICC, setting a precedent for future events.

Nigeria’s Fixtures in Group C

Nigeria, drawn into Group C, will face:

Samoa on January 18, 2025

New Zealand on January 20, 2025

South Africa on January 22, 2025

The team has wrapped up preparations in Nigeria and will hold a final 10-day camp before departing for Malaysia.

With a blend of experience and youthful talent, Nigeria aims to make an indelible mark on the global stage in their debut appearance.