Nigeria’s preparations for the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Division One Qualifier have entered a decisive stage, with the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) trimming the Junior Female YellowGreens’ training squad from 22 to 18 players ahead of the tournament in Tanzania.
The federation announced the reduction as the team’s open training camp in Benin City, Edo State, entered its final selection phase, intensifying competition for places in the squad that will represent Nigeria at the continental qualifier.
The remaining 18 players will continue intensive training while the coaching crew evaluates their performances before naming the final squad.
The current phase of camp focuses on improving technical execution, tactical awareness, team chemistry and role definition. The team will also play a series of practice matches against the senior women’s national team and other selected opponents to assess individual performances and overall team readiness.
Head Coach Sarah Bakhita said the technical crew is working to build a balanced and competitive team capable of competing successfully on the continental stage.
“This phase of camp is focused on bringing the players together as a team, defining and mastering individual roles, and creating an environment where everyone understands their responsibilities. The practice matches will provide valuable opportunities to assess our progress and ensure we are prepared for the challenges ahead,” she said.
The NCF said the open camp forms part of its long-term high-performance development programme, which aims to identify and prepare promising young cricketers for international competition.
With the final squad yet to be announced, players continue to compete for selection based on performance, consistency, discipline, adaptability and their ability to perform under pressure.
The 18 players retained in camp are Christabel Chukwuonye, Shola Adekunle, Omosigho Eguakun, Beauty Oguai, Jessica Bienni, Deborah Bassey, Inyene Ubong, Peace Usen, Anointed Akhigbe, Chisom Okpe, Precious Simon, Jennifer Godwin, GodsGift Ezeali, Promise Oko-Otu, Elizabeth Emmanuel, Praise Onaghise, Glory Idiahi and Favour Effiong.
Nigeria will compete in the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Division One Qualifier in Tanzania, where the Junior Female YellowGreens will seek qualification for the next ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup.
By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
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