Nigeria: Nigeria’s Junior YellowGreens revived their ICC U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup qualification ambitions with a significant five-wicket win over Ghana in Rwanda on Monday. This victory followed a narrow defeat to Uganda in their opening match of the tournament.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the match at Gahanga Oval saw Nigeria dismiss Ghana for a total of 93 runs in 39.5 overs before successfully chasing the target in 22.2 overs, finishing at 96 for five. The foundation of Nigeria’s victory was laid by disciplined bowling, sharp fielding, and composed batting.
Ghana, after winning the toss and opting to bat, faced difficulties against Nigeria’s disciplined bowling attack. Kenneth Boniface was instrumental, taking four wickets for 33 runs in eight overs, effectively dismantling Ghana’s batting order. Precious Ayeni and Princewill Chigozie also contributed with two and one wicket, respectively, while Okasha Isiyaku, Pelumi Orimolade, and Daniel Ayodele took the remaining wickets. David Ateak was the top scorer for Ghana with 26 runs.
In pursuit of 94 runs for victory, Nigeria faced some challenges, slipping to 56 for four. However, they maintained control to finish at 96 for five. Boniface excelled with the bat as well, remaining unbeaten on 30 runs from 32 balls. Andrew Abah and Peculiar Egemasi added valuable scores of 20 and 17 runs, respectively.
Captain Ali Rahmon acknowledged the bowlers’ efforts but emphasized room for improvement in the batting department, despite the victory. Boniface’s all-round performance earned him the Player of the Match honor.
This win was a comeback for Nigeria after their defeat to Uganda, where Boniface scored 97 runs, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s total of 176 all out. Uganda successfully chased the target, reaching 178 for five.
Nigeria’s performance against Ghana demonstrated a more balanced approach, with Boniface emerging as a key player, scoring 127 runs and taking four wickets over the first two matches. Ayeni, Chigozie, Isiyaku, Orimolade, Abah, and Egemasi have also played crucial roles in Nigeria’s campaign.
Nigeria is set to face hosts Rwanda next, followed by matches against Mozambique and Sierra Leone, which are anticipated to be challenging tests for their World Cup qualification aspirations.