In a gripping conclusion to the Under-19 Women's T20 World Cup, Nigeria exited the tournament with a commendable performance, securing a competitive finish just shy of the semi-finals. They concluded their campaign in the Super Six stage with a heart-stopping victory over Ireland in Bangi, Malaysia. By clinching this vital win, Nigeria finished with two Super Six victories, level on points with England, who progressed to the final four.
The match's standout performer was Lillian Udeh, an 18-year-old fast bowler, who delivered a stellar display by claiming three wickets for just 11 runs from her four overs. Her significant contribution was instrumental in Nigeria posting a defendable total of 94 runs for the loss of seven wickets. Udeh's exceptional bowling enabled the team to secure a narrow triumph, winning by six runs with eight deliveries to spare.
Initially, Nigeria's batting struggled, as their top-order faltered badly, with four out of five batters managing to score in single digits. They set off on a rocky start but managed to regroup during the bowling phase. Ireland appeared to have the match under control, starting at 40 for 2 in the eighth over when Udeh’s introduction sparked a dramatic collapse that defined the contest. Over the course of the innings, Nigeria bowled Ireland out for 88 runs, with Ireland losing four wickets for only 14 runs. Annointed Akhigbe, a 17-year-old seamer, was pivotal as well, capturing two key wickets in the 12th over, including Ireland's top scorer, Rebecca Lowe, who made 21 runs off 32 deliveries.
Despite their top-order issues, Nigeria had managed to post a challenging target. Opener Christabel Chukwuonye provided a solid start with a patient 25 runs off 42 balls, including three boundaries. However, the remaining batters struggled, which necessitated a robust response from the lower order. Omosigho Eguakun, with 17 runs off 23 balls, Peculiar Agboya, who contributed 17 not out off 20 balls, and captain Lucky Piety, scored 12 runs off 11 balls to rescue the innings from a precarious 21 for 4, ultimately leading the team to a total of 94.
In another fixture during the Super Six phase, Sri Lanka emerged victorious against Australia, managing to hold on for a consolation win with a modest total of 99 runs. Selecting to bat first, Sri Lanka found themselves in a slow scoring position, with openers Sanjana Kavindi and Sumudu Nisansala making 19 and 18 runs respectively, but failing to create significant momentum.
Australia, having placed second in Group 1 behind India, was gearing up to challenge Group 2 leaders South Africa in the semi-finals. The Sri Lankan side, positioned at 77 for 2 in the 14th over, aimed for a late surge. However, the Australian bowlers, including Lily Bassingthwaighte and Hasrat Gill, initiated a dramatic collapse in which Sri Lanka lost their next six wickets for a mere 22 runs.
In their batting pursuit, Australia started nervously, losing three early wickets. A promising 27-run effort from Caoimhe Bray offered them hope as they arrived at 64 for 3, putting them within reach of the target. Unfortunately for Australia, Bray fell to the Player of the Match, Limansa Thilakarathna, in the 15th over. Sri Lanka capitalized on this breakthrough, as bowlers Chamodi Praboda, Pramudi Methsara, and Aseni Thalagune each secured two wickets, dismantling Australia’s resistance. This resulted in Australia collapsing further, ultimately finishing at 87 runs for the loss of 8 wickets.
As the tournament unfolds, Nigeria may reflect on their impactful performance and the potential showcased, while Sri Lanka takes pride in overcoming the odds against a formidable opponent. The competition continues to highlight emerging talent and the competitive spirit that defines women’s cricket on the global stage.