The stage is set for a thrilling finale to the Nigeria Super League after an action-packed elimination stage produced two deserving finalists at the TBS Cricket Oval, Lagos.
Southern Sharks booked their place in the championship match with a hard-fought 17-run victory over Middle-Belt Tigers in a rain-shortened encounter. The Sharks posted 85/6 in 13 overs, thanks to Durotoye Gideon’s 27 and a quickfire 13 from Danladi Isaac.
Middle-Belt Tigers battled bravely in response but were restricted to 68 all out in 11.3 overs. Captain Runsewe Sulaimon led the fight with 19 runs, while Danladi Isaac starred with the ball, claiming three wickets. Akhigbe Miracle added two wickets as the Sharks secured the first ticket to the final.
The Tigers quickly bounced back to claim the second final spot with an impressive six-wicket victory over Central Eagles. After Central Eagles posted 98/9 in 20 overs, powered by Mohammed Moshood’s 32 and Chima Akachukwu’s 26, the Tigers successfully chased down the target in 17.2 overs.
Captain Runsewe Sulaimon anchored the chase with an unbeaten 38, while Ndubudem Elochukwu David contributed a crucial 24 not out to guide the Tigers into the title decider.
Earlier, Central Eagles edged Northern Lions by seven runs in a closely contested elimination match. Chima Akachukwu top-scored with 30 runs, while Peter Aho produced a match-winning bowling performance, taking three wickets to defend a total of 83.
Attention now turns to Finals Day at the TBS Cricket Oval, Lagos, where Northern Lions and Central Eagles will battle for third place before Southern Sharks and Middle-Belt Tigers face off in the highly anticipated Nigeria Super League Final.
With the title on the line, cricket fans can expect a fitting climax to an exciting inaugural season.
By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
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