By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Nigeria’s YellowGreens have booked their place in the 2027 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final after crushing Lesotho by seven wickets to maintain their unbeaten run at the Sub-Regional Qualifier C in Abuja.
The hosts delivered a commanding performance on Saturday, October 24, bowling Lesotho out for just 62 runs before reaching 65 for three in 7.4 overs to secure qualification for the next stage of the race to the 2028 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Captain Chima Akachukwu spearheaded Nigeria’s bowling attack with an impressive four-wicket haul for 14 runs in 3.5 overs, including a maiden, as Lesotho struggled to build momentum after opting to bat.
Elochukwu Ndubudem claimed two wickets for four runs in two overs, while Kenneth Boniface also picked up two wickets for 14 runs. Mohameed Taiwo chipped in with a wicket as Nigeria dismissed their opponents in 12.5 overs.
Tsepiso Chaoana top-scored for Lesotho with an unbeaten 26 off 18 balls, but his effort proved insufficient to prevent his side from posting a modest total.
Nigeria’s chase suffered a brief setback as three wickets fell early, but Ridwan Abdulkareem and Miracle Akhigbe combined to guide the team home without further loss.
Abdulkareem finished unbeaten on 28 off 18 deliveries, hitting three fours and a six, while Akhigbe contributed an unbeaten 26 off 25 balls, including four boundaries.
Their unbroken partnership ensured Nigeria crossed the finish line with 74 balls to spare, sealing a comprehensive seven-wicket victory.
The result confirms the YellowGreens’ qualification for the 2027 Africa Regional Final, keeping their ambition of reaching the 2028 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup firmly on track.
Nigeria will conclude their group-stage campaign against Uganda on Sunday, October 25, with the team aiming to preserve its unbeaten record and finish the competition on a high.
