Dar es Salaam, September 7 (H.S.): Nigeria defeated Zimbabwe by four runs in a thrilling encounter to win the Africa Qualifier for the Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup and secure qualification for next year’s main tournament.

Batting first, Nigeria posted 98 for six. In reply, Zimbabwe were bowled out for 94 in 19.5 overs. With this victory, Nigeria maintained their unbeaten record throughout the qualifier campaign and became the second African team to qualify for next year’s Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup, to be jointly hosted by Bangladesh and Nepal. South Africa had already secured their place in the tournament.

Nigeria captain and 17-year-old Christabel Chukwuonye said, “I cried after the match because I really could not express my emotions. The next stage is only the beginning, and we know the challenge will be tougher there. My team has truly performed brilliantly.”

She added, “The players listened to the coaches, stayed united and maintained their composure despite the pressure in the final over. I would not be here holding this trophy without the support of the coaching staff and my teammates. I am extremely grateful to all of them.”

Chukwuonye, who batted at No. 6, scored 21 runs and played a crucial role in helping Nigeria reach 98. Nigeria’s innings also featured three run-outs. With the ball, Usain Peace single-handedly rattled Zimbabwe’s top order, giving the chasing side early setbacks. Nigeria’s other bowlers then made valuable contributions to dismiss Zimbabwe for 94.

This is only the second time Nigeria have qualified for the Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup. They had previously featured in the 2025 edition, where they recorded two victories in three completed matches, while two of their games were washed out due to rain. Their most memorable performance came against New Zealand, when Nigeria successfully defended a rain-reduced target of 65 runs.

Besides Nigeria, the United States qualified through the Americas pathway, Samoa through the East Asia-Pacific pathway, and the United Arab Emirates through the Asia pathway for next year’s tournament.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar