Nigeria’s cricket team made history on Monday, upsetting New Zealand in a dramatic ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup group match at the Sarawak Cricket Ground in Malaysia. In a rain-affected encounter shortened to 13 overs each side, Nigeria batted first and scored 65/6. New Zealand fell short in their pursuit, scoring 63/6, handing Nigeria a stunning two-run victory—their first in the competition.
This victory moved Nigeria to the top of Group C with three points, ahead of South Africa (two), Samoa (one), and winless New Zealand. Earlier, Nigeria’s opening match against Samoa was called off without a toss owing to weather.
Hannah O’Connor dismissed Victory Igbinedion for 1 early in New Zealand’s bowling innings. Captain Lucky Piety (18 off 22) and Lillian Udeh (19 off 25) made vital contributions. Chasing 66, New Zealand’s opener Kate Irwin was run out on the first ball, leaving the team at 7/2. Anika Todd (19) and Eve Wolland steadied the innings but were unable to complete the chase.
In the final over, New Zealand needed nine runs, but Udeh’s disciplined bowling limited them to four, with a run-out clinching the victory.
