Nigeria Stuns New Zealand in U19 Women’s Cricket T20 World Cup 2025

In one of the biggest upsets in women’s cricket history, Nigeria pulled off a remarkable two-run victory over New Zealand in the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025! Playing in their first-ever women’s global cricket tournament, Nigeria scripted history by defending a modest total of 65 runs in a rain-affected 13-over-per-side match in Malaysia.

The Group C encounter, held at the Sarawak Cricket Ground, started with New Zealand winning the toss and choosing to bowl first. Nigeria, led by skipper Piety Lucky, battled hard on a tricky pitch and managed to post 65/6 in their 13 overs. Lucky shone with the bat, smashing Nigeria’s first-ever six in the competition, scoring 18 runs, while Lilian Ude chipped in with a vital 19 off 25 balls. Despite a slow start, Nigeria’s efforts gave them a fighting chance.

Nigeria Pulls Off Stunning Two-Run Win Against New Zealand in U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025

New Zealand, expected to comfortably chase the target against an inexperienced Nigerian side, faced an unexpected early collapse. Kate Irwin was run out for a duck (0), and Emma McLeod fell cheaply for 3, dismissed by Prace. Losing two quick wickets, they struggled to regain momentum and found it challenging to establish a steady rhythm throughout the innings.

Despite skipper Tash Wakelin’s efforts (18 off 18 balls), New Zealand fell short, scoring 63/6 in their allotted overs. The Kiwis were unable to recover from the early breakthroughs, and with Wakelin’s run-out on the final ball, Nigeria erupted in joy as they pulled off a historic victory.

Captain Piety Lucky’s all-round performance, contributing both with the bat (18 runs) and ball (1/8 in 3 overs), earned her the Player of the Match award, cementing her role in Nigeria’s famous win.

This stunning win not only puts Nigeria at the top of Group C standings in the ICC Women’s U19 World Cup 2025 but also serves as an inspiring moment for African women’s cricket. Nigeria has shown that they are a force to be reckoned with, even against established cricketing nations like New Zealand.