Nigeria will host six African nations for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier C in Abuja by October, 2026, with two qualification slots for the next stage at stake.
The tournament will feature hosts Nigeria, Uganda, Zambia, Lesotho, Mozambique and The Gambia, competing in a round-robin format at the twin cricket ovals in Abuja.
A total of 15 matches will be played, with the top two teams advancing to the 2027 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier.
Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) President, Uyi Akpata, described the competition as an opportunity to showcase Africa’s growing cricket talent, strengthen continental sporting partnerships and inspire the next generation of players.
Akpata welcomed the participating teams and expressed confidence in Nigeria’s readiness to deliver a successful tournament, highlighting the country’s cricket facilities and the sport’s growing popularity.
He also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the National Sports Commission and corporate as well as individual supporters for their contributions towards hosting the competition.
Nigeria will be led by Chima Akachukwu, who is set to make his debut as captain, with experienced players Peter Aho, Isaac Danladi, Elochukwu Ndubudem, Miracle Akhigbe and Sylvester Okpe among those named in the squad.
The hosts will begin their campaign against The Gambia on Tuesday, October 20, before facing Zambia the following day. They will take on Mozambique on October 23, Lesotho on October 24 and tournament favourites Uganda on October 25.
Uganda, known as the Cricket Cranes, enter the competition as strong contenders, having qualified for the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The team will be captained by Riazat Ali Shah.
Zambia will also be looking to make an impression following their return to international competition in December 2025, while Lesotho, Mozambique and The Gambia will seek to secure places in the next qualifying round.
The tournament forms part of the qualification pathway towards the 2028 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, with the Africa regional qualifying campaign continuing in 2027.
Written by By Arinzechi Chukwunonso, Edited by Julian Osamoto
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