Nigeria secured a dramatic one-run victory over Uganda in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier C at the Nigeria Cricket Federation Oval 1 in Abuja on Sunday.
The narrow win ended Nigeria’s 13-match losing streak against Uganda in T20 internationals and sealed a flawless five-game run, earning the hosts the Sub-Regional C title and a place in next year’s final qualifying round.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Nigeria were dismissed for 148 in 19.4 overs. Isaac Danladi top-scored with 47 off 28 deliveries, hitting three fours and four sixes, while Selim Salau made 30 from 24 balls and Ali Rahmon added 35 off 23.
Nigeria lost wickets at regular intervals after a promising start, with Uganda’s Joseph Baguma taking four for 21. However, late contributions from the lower order lifted the hosts from 129 for six to a competitive total.
Uganda began their chase confidently, with Riazat Ali Shah scoring 60 off 36 balls, including three fours and five sixes. He combined with Olipa Gerald, who scored 18, in a 78-run partnership that put Uganda in control.
Nigeria fought back through disciplined bowling, as Sylvester Okpe removed both Riazat and Gerald, while Isaac Okpe claimed two wickets, including that of Alpesh Ramjani, who made 20. Uganda slumped from 108 for four to 117 for six before Ramjani and Cyrus Kakuru helped revive the innings.
Uganda reached 143 for seven after 19 overs, requiring just six runs from the final over to win.
Vincent Adewoye conceded only four runs from the first five deliveries, while Kakuru was run out for 11. Needing two runs off the final ball to force a tie, Juma Miyagi was run out after completing a single, leaving Uganda on 147 for nine.
Nigeria held their nerve to complete a memorable victory, ending Uganda’s dominance in their previous meetings and finishing the qualifying tournament unbeaten.
