By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Nigeria’s Junior YellowGreens have revived their hopes of securing a place at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup after defeating Ghana by five wickets at the Gahanga Oval in Rwanda.
The Nigerian side produced a dominant bowling display to dismiss Ghana for just 93 runs in 39.5 overs. Keneth Boniface led the attack with an impressive 4/33 from eight overs, while Precious Ayeni returned figures of 2/9. Princewill Chigozie also delivered an outstanding spell, conceding just nine runs in 10 overs and taking a wicket.
Ghana struggled to build partnerships, with David Ateak’s 26 the top score, as Nigeria’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding kept the pressure on throughout the innings.
Chasing 94 for victory, Nigeria encountered some resistance and slipped to 56/4 before losing another wicket at 77. However, the Junior YellowGreens remained composed to complete the chase at 96/5 in 22.2 overs.
Boniface once again proved decisive, finishing unbeaten on 30 from 32 balls, including four fours and a six. Andrew Abah contributed 20 from 42 balls, while Peculiar Egemasi added a brisk 17 from 17 deliveries to steer Nigeria across the line.
The victory comes after Nigeria suffered a five-wicket defeat to Uganda in their opening match. Despite posting 176 all out, powered by Boniface’s impressive 97 off 107 balls, Nigeria were unable to defend the total as Uganda reached 178/5.
Boniface has emerged as Nigeria’s standout performer after two matches, contributing 127 runs and four wickets. His all-round performance against Ghana earned him the Player of the Match award.
Nigeria captain Ali Rahmon praised the bowlers for their disciplined performance but admitted the batting unit must improve after losing five wickets while chasing a modest target.
The Junior YellowGreens will next face hosts Rwanda on Wednesday, August 12, before taking on Mozambique and Sierra Leone as they continue their quest for qualification for the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup.
