Despite a slow start, Nigeria defeated Ireland by six runs in their second game in the Super Six, at the ICC U-19 Women’s cricket T20 World Cup in Malaysia on Wednesday morning.
Losing key batter Victory Igbinedion in the first over and in the lurch at 18/3 inside five overs, Christabel Chukwuonye (25) led the rebuild with contributions from Omosigho Eguakun (17) and late flurries from Peculiar Agboya and Lilian Ude.
With this victory, Nigeria secured third place in Super Six Group 2 which, unfortunately, was not enough to secure a semi-final place.
The semi-final pairing will see India face England and South Africa battle Australia.
Kia McCartney was the pick of Ireland’s bowlers, finishing with 2/13 from four overs.
Ireland suffered an early setback in their chase, losing a wicket in the first over, but Freya Sargent and Rebecca Lowe steadied the innings, guiding them to 30-2 by the end of the powerplay.
However, regular wickets kept Nigeria in control despite some late resistance from Millie Spence and Kia McCartney.
Nigeria managed to withstand the late scare, bowling out Ireland for 88 to secure a narrow 6-run victory. Lillian Ude was the standout performer with figures of 3/11, while Peace Usen and Anointed Akhigbe chipped in with two wickets each.
By James Agberebi
