Nigeria’s Female Yellow Greens, the national women’s cricket team, embarked on their journey to Namibia on Thursday night, setting the stage for their participation in the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier. This crucial tournament, scheduled to unfold from August 28th to September 7th, will determine the two African representatives who will advance to the global qualifiers later in the year. The team’s departure from Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos marked the beginning of their quest to secure a coveted spot in the prestigious T20 World Cup, slated to be held in England in 2026. Their arrival in Namibia on Friday signifies the commencement of their final preparations for the challenging matches that lie ahead.
The 14-player squad, meticulously selected and announced by Coach Leke Oyede earlier in the week, is a testament to Nigeria’s burgeoning cricketing talent. Leading the charge is Captain Peculiar Agboya, a formidable bowler renowned for her prowess on the field. Agboya’s leadership will be instrumental in guiding the team through the rigors of the tournament. Alongside her are other key players such as Piety Lucky and Salome Sunday, whose contributions will be vital to the team’s success. Adding to the team’s strength is wicketkeeper Sarah Etim, a crucial asset in maintaining the team’s defensive strategy. This blend of experience and emerging talent positions the Female Yellow Greens as a force to be reckoned with in the African cricketing landscape.
The Female Yellow Greens have been drawn into Group A, a challenging pool that includes Sierra Leone, the host nation Namibia, and the formidable Zimbabwe. Their campaign begins with a match against Sierra Leone on Sunday, August 31st, followed by a clash against Namibia on Monday, September 1st. The group stage culminates with a decisive encounter against Zimbabwe two days later. Each match presents a unique set of challenges, requiring the Nigerian team to adapt their strategies and showcase their versatility. The other group, Group B, comprises Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda, each vying for a spot in the semi-finals. Only the top two teams from each group will progress to the next stage of the tournament, underscoring the importance of every match in the group stage.
The significance of this qualifying tournament extends beyond regional bragging rights. The two finalists will earn the right to represent Africa in the global qualifiers, a crucial stepping stone towards the ultimate goal: participation in the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup in England. This prestigious event represents the pinnacle of women’s T20 cricket, and the Female Yellow Greens are determined to make their mark on the world stage. The tournament in Namibia is not merely a qualifier; it’s an opportunity to showcase the growth and development of women’s cricket in Nigeria and solidify their place among the elite cricketing nations.
Nigeria Cricket Federation President, Uyi Akpata, expressed his unwavering confidence in the team’s capabilities, highlighting the blend of talent, determination, and youthful energy within the squad. He views the team as a representation of the future of women’s cricket in Nigeria, a testament to the federation’s commitment to nurturing and developing the sport. Akpata’s optimism stems from the team’s recent performances and the dedication displayed by the players and coaching staff. He believes they possess the necessary skills and mental fortitude to compete effectively against the other African nations and secure a place in the global qualifiers. This support from the federation provides an additional boost to the team’s morale as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
The 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier in Namibia serves as a critical juncture in the journey of Nigeria’s Female Yellow Greens. It’s a platform for them to demonstrate their cricketing prowess, compete against strong opposition, and ultimately, realize their dream of representing Africa on the global stage. Their performance in Namibia will not only determine their immediate future but also shape the trajectory of women’s cricket in Nigeria for years to come. The journey to the World Cup is paved with challenges, but the Female Yellow Greens are prepared to embrace the opportunity and make their nation proud. Their dedication, skill, and unwavering spirit will be on full display as they strive to secure their place among the world’s best.
