The ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Africa Division 2 Qualifier began with a thrilling match at the Dar Gymkhana Ground, where Tanzania secured a crucial home victory against Nigeria, winning by 6 wickets.
The ground was packed with enthusiastic supporters cheering for the home side, creating an electric atmosphere. Batting first, Nigeria struggled against the disciplined Tanzanian bowling attack.
Laksh Bakrania, the Tanzanian captain, led from the front with an impressive performance, taking 3 wickets for 19 runs in his 10 overs. He was well-supported by Augustine Mwamele (3-15) and Ally H. Ally (2-19). A highlight of the match was Laksh Bakrania’s stunning one-handed caught and bowled to dismiss Femi Oresenwo, who was looking well set after building
partnerships with Ali Rahmon and Kenneth Boniface.
Despite these efforts, Nigeria was bowled out for 127 in 45.4 overs. In response, Tanzania chased down the target with confidence, scoring 128/4 in 35.4 overs. Karim Kiseto played a brilliant innings, becoming the tournament’s first half-centurion with his score of 57 off 88 balls, supported by Hamza Onai (20 off 37 balls).
The Nigerian bowlers, Progress Osagie (2-22) and Opening bowler Okasha Isiyaku (1-30), tried to apply
pressure, but Tanzania held their nerve to secure the win.
“This win is significant for us as the host nation. The team showed great character, and we are thrilled to start the tournament on a positive note,” said Laksh Bakrania, the Tanzanian captain.
This victory was particularly sweet for Tanzania as they avenged their defeat against Nigeria at the same ground in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Africa Qualifier 2023 Division 1, where both teams were relegated to Division 2.
Ghana Secures a Hard-Fought Victory Over Mozambique
Ghana battled hard to secure a win against Mozambique in their opening match at the UDSM Ground. Despite chasing a low total, Ghana faced a challenging task, losing 6 wickets in their pursuit of the target.
Mozambique batted first and struggled to build partnerships, being bowled out for 80 in 34.3 overs. Ghana’s Lee Nyarko delivered a captain’s performance, taking 5 wickets for 25 runs in his 10 overs, well-supported by Bernard Addo (2-12) and David Ateak (2-19).
Mozambique skipper Antonio Laice (17 off 52 balls) and Filipe Nelson (13 off 30 balls) were the top scorers for Mozambique.
In reply, Ghana faced a spirited bowling effort from Mozambique. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, they managed to chase down the target, scoring 81/6 in 11.4 overs.
A crucial partnership between Aariz Sood and David Ateak stabilized Ghana’s chase after they lost 3 wickets in the third over, courtesy of superb bowling from Mozambique’s Charles Manuel Mbebe (3-21). Lee Nyarko again led from the front, scoring 30 off 28 balls, ensuring Ghana’s first win of the tournament.
“Chasing a low total, we knew it wouldn’t be easy. The pitch offered something for the bowlers, and we had to work hard for every run. The team showed great resilience,” said Lee Nyarko, the Ghanaian captain.
Player of the Match Awards
Ghana vs Mozambique: Lee Nyarko (Ghana) – 5-25 (10 overs) & 30* off 28 balls. A captain’s performance that steered his team to victory.
Tanzania vs Nigeria: Laksh Bakrania (Tanzania) – 3-19 (10 overs). Playing just like he quoted in the press conference, “It’s not just about being a captain but a leader.”
Upcoming Matches on Day 2
Sierra Leone vs Rwanda:
Sierra Leone, returning to Tanzania after being relegated last year from Division 1, will open their campaign against Rwanda, who have done their homework well. The match will be played at Dar Gymkhana Ground.
Botswana vs Malawi:
Botswana will take on Malawi at the UDSM Ground. Both teams are looking to start their tournament with a win.
Courtesy Photos
