Nigeria clinch U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2027 berth over Zimbabwe

Nigeria secured their place at the 2027 ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup by edging Zimbabwe in a dramatic Africa Qualifier Division 1 final. The team completed an unbeaten campaign in Dar es Salaam, defending a total of 98 with disciplined bowling to dismiss Zimbabwe for 94 with one ball left. Captain Christabel Chukwuonye anchored Nigeria’s innings with 21, supported by Beauty Oguai and Jessica Bieni, while Christine Mutasa led Zimbabwe’s attack. In reply, Salem Museka, Bethel Zinyama and Nicolette Nyika kept Zimbabwe in contention, but Nigeria’s bowlers held firm.

Usen Peace claimed three wickets, with Jennifer Godwin and Annointed Akhigbe adding two each. An emotional Chukwuonye praised her squad’s unity and composure under pressure. Elsewhere, Uganda finished third after beating Rwanda, Tanzania claimed fifth by overcoming Kenya, and Namibia secured seventh with a dominant win over Malawi. Nigeria will join South Africa as Africa’s representatives at the 2027 tournament.