CRICKET: Nigeria strengthens West Africa trophy lead with 23-run win over Zambia

Nigeria secured a commanding fifth victory in the ongoing West Africa Trophy on Monday, defeating Zambia by 23 runs at NCF Oval 1, Abuja, Sport360NG reports.

After being sent in to bat by Zambia, the Yellow Greens stumbled early, losing Rahmon Ali, the player of the match against Sierra Leone, inside 1.5 overs, and captain-wicketkeeper Sulaimon Runsewe shortly after at 2.3 overs. However, a crucial middle-order recovery anchored by Danladi Isaac, who scored a quickfire 54 off 42 balls, propelled Nigeria to a defendable total.

Contributions from Selim Salau (26 off 22) and Sylvester Okpe (30 off 29) helped Nigeria post 158 for 8 in their 20 overs.

Chasing 159, Zambia began positively, with Asim Mohammed striking 39 from 32 balls. But Nigeria’s bowlers struck regularly, led by Isaac Okpe, who took an exceptional five wickets in four overs. Joshua Asia’s three wickets and Sylvester Okpe’s support further disrupted Zambia’s chase, restricting them to 135 all out in 19 overs.

The victory strengthens Nigeria’s position atop the tournament standings with 10 points, putting them in a strong position for a place in the final. Zambia, with only one win so far, sit third on two points.

Nigeria will face Rwanda in their next group-stage encounter on Tuesday before the tournament takes a break on Wednesday ahead of the final round.