Nigeria debuts at ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup with historic win over New Zealand
Nigeria’s Junior Female Yellow Greens have achieved a historic win at the 2025 ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia, defeating New Zealand by two runs in a thrilling match.
The victory is Nigeria’s first-ever win at a Women’s World Cup.
After Nigeria’s opening game against Samoa was delayed due to rain, the weather again threatened to interfere with the game against New Zealand. The match was delayed by over two hours, resulting in fewer overs being played.
New Zealand won the toss and chose to field first, allowing Nigeria to bat.
Nigeria’s captain, Lucky Piety, made history by hitting the country’s first-ever six at a Women’s World Cup. She led the team’s innings, helping them reach 65 runs for six wickets in 13 overs.
Lucky was also named Player of the Match, thanks to her solid knock of 18 runs off 22 balls and a brilliant bowling performance, taking 1 wicket for just 8 runs in 3 overs.
In reply, Nigeria’s bowlers kept their cool and restricted New Zealand to 63 runs for six wickets, securing a dramatic two-run victory. This win marks a major achievement for women’s cricket in Nigeria.
