By Joel Ajayi
Match Day 2 of the 7th edition of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) National U-17 Championship Finals in Abuja delivered thrilling contests, as teams from the North West, South West and South East recorded impressive victories at the NCF Pitch.
The day’s action, featuring fixtures in the Boys’ Super League and the Girls’ Round One, was highlighted by dominant bowling displays and disciplined batting that significantly influenced the early tournament standings.
Boys’ Category: North West, South East Dominate
In the boys’ division, the North West and South East teams produced commanding performances to underline their title ambitions.
North West vs North Central:
North West posted a competitive total of 118/7 in 25 overs and went on to defeat North Central by 57 runs. David Garba led the charge with the bat, scoring 39 runs off 40 balls, before returning with the ball to claim three wickets as North Central were bowled out for 61.
South East vs North East:
South East delivered one of the most dominant displays of the tournament, dismissing North East for just 14 runs in 9.2 overs. They chased down the target in only 1.2 overs without losing a wicket to secure a convincing 10-wicket victory.
Echem Chukwuemeka starred with the ball, producing a remarkable spell of five wickets for three runs in five overs.
Girls’ Category: South West, North West Secure Wins
The girls’ fixtures were more closely contested, with tactical bowling and resilient batting shaping the outcomes.
South West vs North Central:
South West edged North Central by two wickets in a thrilling encounter. North Central had set a target of 83 runs, with Fatima Musa delivering an impressive bowling performance of four wickets for seven runs. However, a determined 27 runs from Isijola Shalom guided South West to 84/8 to seal the win.
North West vs North East:
North West secured a comfortable seven-wicket victory after restricting North East to 45 runs. Elizabeth Emmanuel led the bowling attack with three wickets for seven runs, while Emmanuel Eneta contributed 16 runs to help chase the target in 7.3 overs.
With the tournament gaining momentum, teams will now look to build on their performances as the championship continues in Abuja.
