By VIVIAN AHANMISI

Nigeria’s Yellow-Green women’s team on Wednesday defeated South Africa U-19 in a gripping Super Over finish at the fifth Nigeria Women’s Invitational T20I in Lagos.

The victory marked a crucial turnaround for Nigeria, who had earlier faltered, as both sides sought redemption after suffering defeats in previous matches.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the encounter took place at the Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval, a venue known for hosting high-profile domestic fixtures.

The competition is staged as the Patricia Kambarami Cup, honouring the late ICC Africa Regional Development Manager and Titans Chief Operating Officer.

South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first but immediately faced pressure from Nigeria’s disciplined and accurate bowling attack.

Ashley Bernad was dismissed off the final delivery of the opening over without scoring, setting an early tone for Nigeria’s dominance.

Jeze Campher followed shortly after, managing just one run as Nigeria’s bowlers maintained tight lines and restricted scoring opportunities.

After four overs, South Africa were struggling at two runs for two wickets, highlighting Nigeria’s early control of proceedings.

At the end of the powerplay, South Africa crawled to 18 for three, with their top order unable to cope with sustained pressure.

Captain Mieke Van Voorst then anchored the innings, producing a composed and skilful knock of 69 runs from 47 balls.

Her innings combined patience and calculated aggression, ensuring South Africa recovered from a precarious position to post a competitive total.

Siphokuhle Masilela contributed 20 runs, providing valuable support during the middle overs to stabilise the innings.

Jae-Leigh Filander also chipped in with 16 runs, helping South Africa reach 133 for six at the end of their 20 overs.

In reply, Nigeria began cautiously, with openers Amusa Kehinde and Christabel Chukuonye finding it difficult to build early momentum.

Amusa was eventually dismissed for nine runs, leaving Nigeria at 13 for one and still searching for rhythm in the chase.

The innings progressed steadily, though scoring remained measured, as Nigeria reached 47 for one at the halfway stage.

Christabel and Eguakun Omosigho contributed useful runs but were unable to significantly accelerate the scoring rate when required.

South Africa regained control by dismissing Omosigho for 18 runs, a breakthrough that shifted momentum back in their favour.

Captain Lucky Piety then stepped in and transformed the contest with an aggressive and determined batting display under pressure.

Piety struck 66 runs off just 35 balls, showcasing power hitting and composure, including a decisive over that yielded 24 runs.

Her late surge dramatically altered the match situation, enabling Nigeria to level the scores and force the contest into a Super Over.

Christabel provided steady support with a patient 26 runs before retiring out, ensuring Nigeria maintained wickets towards the closing stages.

In the Super Over, Nigeria posted 10 runs, with Piety and Salome combining to set a challenging target under tense conditions.

Nigeria’s bowlers then delivered a composed performance, restricting South Africa to nine runs in a nervy and closely contested finish.

The narrow margin of victory underscored Nigeria’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure in a high-stakes situation.

Piety’s outstanding all-round contribution earned her the Player of the Match award, recognising her decisive impact on the outcome.

“It’s a very great feeling. I’m grateful to God who heard me when I called upon Him during a difficult stage.

“I needed strength at that moment because it was not easy, and the opposition played really well throughout the match.

“I’m glad I was able to respond with the bat and help push the team forward when it mattered most.

“God was involved in every step we took, and with the work of our hands, we were able to succeed,” Piety said. (NAN)

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