The Female Yellow Greens suffered a 10-wicket defeat in the hands of test nation Zimbabwe on Wednesday, ultimately ending their hopes of advancing to the next round of the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier Division 1 in Namibia.
Batting first, Nigeria posted a total of 90 runs all out in 19.5 overs before they were chased down in the second innings.
Despite a positive start, the Zimbabwean bowling attack, led by the brilliant Josephine Nkomo proved too difficult to handle.
Wicket keeper Sarah Etim top-scored for Nigeria with a well-played 25 off 22 balls, while Omonkhobhio Oseyande recorded 16 off 10 and skipper Peculiar Agboya 12 off 16 tried to keep the scoreboard moving.
However, consistent wickets at crucial moments restricted Nigeria from building partnerships, leaving them short of a competitive total.
In response, Zimbabwe displayed authority and composure with the bat.
Their openers, Kelis Ndlovu recorded 44 off 46 balls and Modester Mapachikwa 36 off 40 balls, put together an unbeaten stand to chase down the target comfortably in 14.2 overs, finishing at 93 without loss.
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The Nigerian bowlers struggled to break the partnership, failing to pick any wickets despite their efforts.
The result means Nigeria finished third in the group with just two points from their only win against Sierra Leone, while Zimbabwe and hosts Namibia advanced to the semi-finals.
The Female Yellow Greens will end the tournament with classification playoff games.
(Editor: Ena Agbanoma)
