By Victoria Hamilton 
Nigeria wrapped up their ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 journey on a high note, securing a thrilling six-run victory over Ireland in Bangi. Lilian Ude delivered a stellar all-round performance, claiming 3/11 with the ball and contributing 12 vital runs at the death. Christabel Chukwuonye anchored the Nigerian innings with a composed 25, while Peculiar Agboya and Omosigho Eguakun chipped in with 17 runs each.
Despite Ireland’s spirited chase, their innings crumbled under consistent wicket-taking pressure from Nigeria. Rebecca Lowe top-scored with 21, but crucial breakthroughs at regular intervals ensured Nigeria walked away with their second tournament victory, finishing third in Super Six Group 2.
Chukwuonye Leads Nigeria’s Batting Effort
Opting to bat first, Nigeria faced an early setback when Victory Igbinedion was run out without scoring, followed by Muhibat Amusa falling for five in the second over. At 6/2, the innings needed stability, and opener Christabel Chukwuonye stepped up. She kept the scoreboard ticking, striking crucial boundaries despite wickets tumbling around her.
Piety Lucky (4) and Adeshola Adekunle (0) departed cheaply, leaving Nigeria at a precarious 21/4. However, Chukwuonye found a solid partner in Omosigho Eguakun, guiding Nigeria past the midway mark before falling for 25 in the 14th over.
Eguakun (17) and Peculiar Agboya (17) combined effectively to rebuild momentum, while Lilian Ude’s late flourish of 12 ensured Nigeria reached 94/7 in their 20 overs—setting a competitive target for Ireland.
Ude’s Heroics Derail Ireland’s Chase
Nigeria struck early in the second innings as Usen Peace bowled Alice Walsh for a duck in the opening over. Ireland tried to recover with Freya Sargent (14) and Rebecca Lowe (21) forming a 30-run partnership, but Ude’s magic with the ball soon turned the game. She dismissed Sargent and Annabel Squires (1) in quick succession, shifting the momentum back in Nigeria’s favor.
The Irish middle order struggled to gain any foothold, with Lara McBride (0) and Abbi Harrison (2) falling cheaply. Anointed Akhigbe then delivered a crucial double blow, removing the well-set Lowe and piling further pressure on Ireland at 54/6.
Though Niamh MacNulty (5) and Millie Spence (14) showed resilience, they couldn’t steer Ireland home as wickets continued to tumble. Piety Lucky and Amusa closed out the innings efficiently, dismissing the lower order to bowl Ireland out for 88 in 18.4 overs—sealing a remarkable victory for Nigeria by six runs.
Captain’s Reflections
Speaking after the game, Nigeria’s captain Piety Lucky praised the team’s resilience:
“It was a hard-fought match, and I’m proud of how we handled the pressure. Lilian Ude was outstanding, and everyone played their part. This win means a lot to us.”
Despite the loss, Ireland’s captain acknowledged Nigeria’s strong performance:
“We had a good chance, but they bowled exceptionally well under pressure. Credit to them for keeping us on the back foot.”
Key Takeaways
Lilian Ude’s All-Round Brilliance: 3/11 with the ball and 12 crucial runs
Christabel Chukwuonye Anchors the Innings: Top scores with 25
Anointed Akhigbe’s Impact: 2/8, including the key wicket of Rebecca Lowe
Nigeria Finishes Third in Super Six Group 2
With this victory, Nigeria bids farewell to the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 with their heads held high, having claimed two wins—including a historic triumph over New Zealand.
Madhavam