Nigeria Falls Short, Finishes Sixth In T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers
By FRED LONGJOHN OBEH
NIGERIA’S hopes of reaching the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup ended on Saturday after a 66-run defeat to Uganda in the 5th-place playoff, leaving the Yellow Greens in sixth position at the Africa Qualifiers.
Uganda posted a strong total of 196 for 7, led by an unbeaten 66 from Riazat Ali Shah. In reply, Nigeria managed 130 for 7 in 20 overs, with captain Sylvester Okpe top-scoring with 26 runs and taking two wickets.
The Nigerians won two of their five matches—against Malawi and Botswana—but suffered defeats to Namibia, Kenya, and Uganda, showing glimpses of promise but lacking consistency in key moments.
Zimbabwe and Namibia claimed Africa’s two qualification slots for the World Cup and will join South Africa as the continent’s representatives.
Despite the setback, the tournament provided valuable experience for Nigeria’s young squad and underscored the need for continued investment in grassroots and elite cricket development.
