The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) celebrated the triumphant return of Nigeria’s women’s U-19 cricket team, the Junior Female Yellow Greens, after their historic qualification for the 2025 ICC U-19 Women’s World Cup held in Rwanda. This achievement was particularly significant as it marked Nigeria’s emergence as the best team in an eight-nation tournament. The team secured their spot in the World Cup despite a rain-affected final against Zimbabwe, a recognized test-playing nation, owing to their unbeaten streak and superior head-to-head record against Zimbabwe. The upcoming World Cup is scheduled to take place from January 18 to February 2, 2025, in Malaysia, with Nigeria proudly representing the nation.
Uyi Akpata, the NCF president, attributed this success to the federation’s strategic focus on cricket development over recent years. He emphasized that their targeted initiatives, especially concerning female cricket, have played a crucial role in the team’s achievements. Akpata noted the importance of the PwC U-17 tournament, which has been a fundamental part of the training pipeline for players. He expressed confidence in the commitment of the federation to nurture upcoming talents, leading to players’ improved performances on the international stage, highlighting that those efforts have gradually borne fruit.
Captain Lucky Piety shared her sentiments on the momentous achievement, dedicating the victory to the cricket board and stakeholders involved in the sport’s development in Nigeria. Piety reflected on the mental journey the team undertook throughout the tournament, underscoring the collective determination and strong mindset that propelled them to success. She acknowledged the infrastructural and supportive initiatives that have facilitated their path, indicating that the competitive spirit cultivated during their training and tournaments was critical for their performance at the international level.
Further affirming the importance of this achievement, John Enoh, the head of liaison from the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, commended the NCF for its diligent efforts over the years. He encouraged the athletes to carry the same passion for achieving excellence in their academic pursuits. Enoh’s perspective reflects a larger vision of holistic development for the players, stating that a balanced approach between sports and education could lead to even greater accomplishments. He recognized the dedication and hard work put in by numerous individuals within the federation, ensuring their successful representation at the World Cup.
It is also noteworthy that the Junior Female Yellow Greens followed in the footsteps of their male counterparts, who qualified for the U-19 World Cup in 2019, making this the second instance of a Nigerian team qualifying for a cricket World Cup. This achievement not only showcases the potential of Nigerian cricket on the global stage but also serves as an inspiration for younger generations of athletes in the country. The NCF’s strategic emphasis on programs promoting women’s involvement in cricket indicates a growing commitment to gender equality in sports, aiming to provide equal opportunities for female players.
In conclusion, the successful qualification of Nigeria’s women’s U-19 cricket team for the ICC U-19 Women’s World Cup stands as a significant milestone for the NCF and Nigerian cricket at large. The blend of strategic planning, player development, and holistic education emphasized by stakeholders illustrates a comprehensive approach to ensuring sustained success in sports. With their eyes set on the 2025 World Cup in Malaysia, the Junior Female Yellow Greens have ignited a wave of optimism and pride, paving the way for the future of cricket in Nigeria.
