The South-East region emerged champions in both the boys’ and girls’ categories at the seventh edition of the National Under-17 Cricket Championship held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
The week-long tournament, organised by the Nigeria Cricket Federation, brought together young cricketers from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and showcased some of the country’s most promising talents.
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In the girls’ final, South-East defeated South-South by three wickets in a closely contested encounter. After winning the toss and opting to field, the South-East bowlers set the tone early with disciplined performances.
Ude Amarachi delivered an outstanding spell, taking two wickets for nine runs in four overs, while Okpe Chisome supported with two wickets for 16 runs to restrict South-South’s batting line-up.
Despite the pressure, Okonkwo Precious anchored the South-South innings with an unbeaten 22 off 26 balls. She received support from Ejike Prestige, who scored 13, and Okpara Treasure with 12, as South-South posted 96 for six in 20 overs.
The chase proved difficult for South-East, who slumped to 51 for seven after 12 overs following impressive bowling from Ejike Prestige (2/17) and Olisejioku Victory (2/21).
However, Oko Theresa produced a match-winning performance, scoring a patient 33 off 46 balls. She combined with Ude Amarachi (11) to steady the innings and guide South-East to 98 for seven in 18.4 overs, sealing the title.
In the boys’ final, South-East also triumphed, defeating South-West by 23 runs to complete a remarkable double.
Batting first, South-East were bowled out for 145 in 36.5 overs, with captain Ejiofor Chiemezie scoring 18 off 32 balls. Okoye Obinna added an unbeaten 22 off 20 deliveries, while Ojo David (18) and Ibe Chigamezu Michael (15) made important contributions.
South-West captain Peter Isari led the bowling attack with three wickets for 29 runs, while Eboka Paul, Oladejo Emmanuel and Orimolade Pelumi picked up two wickets each.
Chasing 146, South-West struggled to build lasting partnerships and were eventually dismissed for 122 in 32 overs.
Balogun Daniel and Oladejo Emmanuel were the top scorers with 25 runs apiece.
South-East’s bowling attack proved decisive, with Onya Chukwuemeka Samuel claiming three wickets for 22 runs. Okoye Obinna (2/23) and captain Ejiofor Chiemezie (2/35) also made key contributions to secure victory.
South-West finished third in the girls’ category, while South-South claimed third place in the boys’ event.
