Nigeria Welcomes Teams for ICC U-19 Men’s World Cup Africa Qualifier

The ICC U-19 Men’s World Cup Africa Qualifier will kick off in Lagos from March 28 to April 6, 2025. Teams including Namibia, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Sierra Leone are arriving for this pivotal opportunity. Nigeria, as the host, is prepared to showcase its growing cricket development, with tournament officials already on site.

The ICC U-19 Men’s World Cup Africa Qualifier is set to begin in Lagos, with competing teams preparing for a fierce contest for the only World Cup spot available in the region. Namibia will arrive in Lagos on Tuesday, joining the host nation, Nigeria, with other teams—Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Sierra Leone—scheduled to land on Wednesday.

The tournament is set to occur from March 28 to April 6, 2025, at two main venues: Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval and the University of Lagos Cricket Oval. Each team is scheduled to hold a training session on the pitches on March 27 in preparation for the tournament’s kickoff on March 28.

On the opening day, Nigeria will compete against Namibia at 9:30 AM at the Tafawa Balewa Square Oval, while Sierra Leone will face Kenya at the University of Lagos Cricket Oval. The International Cricket Council officials have arrived to ensure the events run smoothly.

Emeka Igwilo, the tournament coordinator, underlined Nigeria’s hosting role, stating the event offers an opportunity to showcase the nation’s cricket growth. He remarked on the importance of enhancing both talent development and administrative capacity, saying, “This is another opportunity for Nigeria to show how broad the game is growing… I believe we are ready and Nigeria will play an excellent host.”

The ICC U-19 Men’s World Cup Africa Qualifier in Lagos is poised to be a significant event for African cricket, with teams ready to compete for the vital World Cup entry. As host, Nigeria aims to demonstrate its capabilities in both sporting talent and event management, ensuring a successful tournament experience. With various teams arriving and preparations underway, the stage is set for an exciting competition.

Original Source: punchng.com