Nigeria lead T20 World Cup qualifier as Uganda keep pace

Nigeria have taken an early lead in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier C in Abuja after winning their opening two matches, with Uganda also recording back-to-back victories to strengthen their chances of advancing.

The latest standings, released on Thursday, October 22, show Nigeria top of the six-team table with four points and a net run rate of 5.6129, ahead of Uganda, who also have four points but a net run rate of 3.8635.

Lesotho and Mozambique occupy third and fourth positions respectively, with two points each after recording one win and one defeat, while Zambia and The Gambia are yet to earn a point.

Nigeria and Uganda set early pace

The competition began on October 20 at the twin cricket ovals in Abuja, with six countries competing in a round-robin format for two qualification places in the next stage of the 2027 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier.

Nigeria’s strong start has put the hosts in a favourable position as they pursue progression in the qualification pathway, while Uganda remain close behind on the same number of points.

Lesotho and Mozambique will also be seeking to improve their positions as the tournament progresses, while Zambia and The Gambia face the task of securing their first victories.

Olopade welcomes teams to Abuja

Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, welcomed the participating teams and officials to Abuja, describing the tournament as an opportunity to showcase Africa’s growing cricket talent and strengthen sporting partnerships across the continent.

Olopade also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, corporate organisations, the Cricket Federation and individuals for supporting Nigeria’s hosting of the competition.

Nigeria builds on recent cricket progress

Nigeria’s campaign comes amid recent progress in the country’s cricket development, including the qualification of the women’s Under-19 team for the ICC Women’s Under-19 World Cup for a second consecutive time and the men’s Under-19 team’s promotion to Division One.

The senior men’s team will aim to maintain its momentum as the tournament continues in Abuja, with the two available qualification places still being contested by all six teams.

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