Nigeria’s U-19 women’s cricket team on Friday defeated Zimbabwe in the Fifth Women’s Invitational T20i, restricting them to a low total and chasing it comfortably.

At Tafawa Balewa Square Oval, Lagos, Zimbabwe won the toss and elected to bat, but were checked early by Lilian Ude and Anointed Akhigbe.

Akhigbe struck in the third over, dismissing Nicollete Nyika for five, as Zimbabwe reached 32 for one at the end of the power play.

Peace Usen triggered a collapse, with quick wickets reducing Zimbabwe to 46 for five in 10.3 overs.

Akhigbe returned to claim two more wickets in the 12th over, while Christabel Chukuonye’s sharp throw produced a run-out as Zimbabwe slipped to 56 for eight.

Zimbabwe were eventually bowled out for 80 in 16.5 overs, with Usen and Akhigbe taking three wickets each.

Beloved Biza scored 21, Lorraine Pemhiwa 22, and Nokuntenda Makanhiwa added 10 for Zimbabwe.

Nigeria’s openers, Captain Lucky Piety and Victory Igbinedion, began steadily, mixing caution with attacking strokes.

Piety made 21 before falling in the fifth over, while Igbinedion scored 10, as Nigeria reached 42 for two after the power play.

Amusa Kehinde and Salome Sunday then added 31 runs, guiding Nigeria closer to victory.

Nigeria chased down the target, finishing on 81 for two in 11.2 overs.

Sunday scored 19, while Kehinde contributed 13 runs.

Usen was named Player of the Match for her bowling performance.

“I sincerely appreciate my team’s dedication. This award would not have been achievable without their hard work. I look forward to contributing my quota, and hopeful we can win this tournament,” Usen said. 

(NAN)