By VIVIAN AHANMISI

Nigeria Women’s U-19 team defeated South Africa in a commanding semi-final display on Friday to reach the fifth Nigeria Women’s Invitational T20I final in Lagos.

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

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the match was held at the Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval in Lagos.

With their last meeting decided by a Super Over, South Africa opted to bat first after winning the toss but suffered a dramatic collapse.

South Africa slumped to 6 for 5 in 3.4 overs, leaving spectators stunned by the early damage inflicted by Nigeria’s bowlers.

At the end of the powerplay, they managed 16 for 5, and reached only 33 for 6 by the 10-over mark.

Ashley Barnard scored 15 off 30 balls, Daneli Boshoff 16 off 12, and Jae Leigh Filander 13 off 23, offering brief resistance.

Nigeria’s bowlers dominated, with Lilian Ude taking 3 for 6 in four overs, while Peace Usen claimed 2 for 18 in four overs.

South Africa were eventually bowled out for a modest 66 in 17 overs.

In response, Nigeria chased with composure, reaching 33 before losing Victory Igbinedion, who made 18 off 12 balls.

Captain Lucky Piety stamped her authority, smashing two sixes off her first two deliveries to effectively end the contest.

Nigeria comfortably reached 67 for 3 in 9.5 overs, with Piety unbeaten on 18 off 8 balls.

Amusan Kehinde contributed a steady 15 off 31 balls as Nigeria sealed victory with ease.

Lilian Ude was named Player of the Match for her outstanding bowling display. (NAN)

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