By Akanimo Kufre, Uyo
It was a moment of joy as Cricket World Cup debutants, Nigeria stunned New Zealand, a cricket powerhouse by 2 runs to seal a historic victory in Malaysia on Monday morning.
While Nigerians in Lagos were getting ready for the new week, the heroic feat of the girls was greeted with excitement throughout the West African cricket community.
The Director General of National Sports Commission, Mr. Bukola Olopade was woken by the news into dancing.
“I got a call from President of Nigeria Cricket Federation, (NCF) Mr. Uyi Akpata. That got me out of bed, and I started dancing. I believe strongly the emphasis to support every sport is beginning to manifest. Credit goes to NCF President, the U19 girls, and the technical crew. I am so excited, and I’ll be joining them in a couple of days.”
While New Zealand is still in shock, the victory may not be a big surprise to the Nigerian U19 Coach, Sarah Bhakita. In November 2024, Coach Bhakita was certain her girls would play up to the semifinals.
“One thing we are aiming at is at least getting to the semifinals. With their capabilities as long as they apply themselves, they can do that. Selecting them was a challenge because they were all talented.
Capt. Piety Lucky and Coach Sarah Bhakita in a chat.
“The girls have this game maturity. Our slogan is don’t underestimate any team and don’t underestimate yourself as well, just go hot.”
Coach Sarah Bhakita further told the girls they should not bother if they are playing high ranked or low ranked team. “Just play good cricket.”
Earlier on Saturday, the rain washed out Nigeria’s first match against another debutant, Samoa. The Nigerian girls fumed to have shared the point against expected 2 full points.
Filling out to meet New Zealand, captain Piety Lucky set daring example by playing Nigeria’s first six runs at ICC World Cup. Peace Usen recorded first dismissal as a fantastic bowler, and Deborah Bassey gave effective wicket keeping that dismissed, New Zealand’s Captain, Tash Wakelin, and Kate Irwin.
It was exciting to see the boldness of these teenagers’ patriotism as they defend 65 runs and restricted almighty Zealand to 63 runs in 13 overs. The journey for most of the girls started in Achimota, Ghana, during Africa Games, March 2024.
Nigeria is already certain of qualifications into the next stage of the ICC U19 WOMEN’S CRICKET WORLD CUP competition before squaring up against the South African sisters