Southeast crowned champions at NCF/PwC National U17 tourney
The curtain fell in spectacular fashion on the 7th edition of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) PwC National U17 Championship at the NCF Pitch, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, with the
The curtain fell in spectacular fashion on the 7th edition of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) PwC National U17 Championship at the NCF Pitch, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, with the South East region emerging as the dominant force in Nigerian youth cricket, clinching both the Boys’ and Girls’ national titles after a thrilling week of elite junior cricket action.
The championship, which brought together the most promising young cricketers from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, delivered several days of intense competition, remarkable individual performances, and dramatic finishes — reinforcing the Nigeria Cricket Federation’s commitment to grassroots development and the discovery of the country’s next generation of cricket stars.
In a gripping and tension-filled final, South East Female defeated South-South Female by 3 wickets in a low-scoring encounter that tested nerves, discipline, and resilience.
After winning the toss and electing to field, South East’s bowling unit set the tone early. Ude Sunshine
Amarachi produced a standout performance, claiming 2 wickets for just 9 runs in 4 overs, while Okpe
Chisome complemented the effort with 2 wickets for 16 runs, keeping South South under sustained pressure.
Despite the tight bowling, Okonkwo Precious anchored the South South innings with a composed 22 not out off 26 balls, supported by Ejike Prestige (13) and Okpara Treasure (12), guiding their team to 96/6 in 20 overs.
The chase began on shaky ground for South East, who found themselves in serious trouble at 51/7 after 12 overs as Ejike Prestige (2/17) and Olisejioku Victory (2/21) threatened to turn the contest in South South’s favour.
However, Oko Theresa delivered a match-winning performance under immense pressure, scoring a patient 33 runs off 46 balls. Alongside, Ude Sunshine Amarachi (11), the pair steadied the innings and guided South East to 98/7 in 18.4 overs, sealing the championship title and sparking jubilant celebrations.
Earlier in the day, the third-place playoff between North West Female and South West Female produced one of the most dramatic finishes of the tournament.
Batting first, North West struggled against a disciplined South West bowling attack. Ezekiel Mary (12 off 35) and Isijola Shalom (18 off 17) were the main contributors as North West posted 84/9 in 20 overs.
South West bowlers Azeez Kehinde Oyinkansola (3/16) and Akinola Eniola (2/19) were instrumental in dismantling the North West lineup.
The chase proved equally dramatic. With South West reeling at 71/9, needing 14 runs with just one wicket remaining, the unlikely pair of Azeez Kehinde Oyinkansola (5 off 30) and Akinola Eniola (10 off 19) held their nerve.
In a remarkable display of composure, the duo guided their side to 86/9 in 19.3 overs, securing a 1-wicket victory and a well-earned podium finish for the South West.
In the Boys’ final, South East Male showcased tactical discipline and bowling strength to defeat South West Male by 23 runs, sealing a historic double triumph for the region.
Batting first, South East posted 145 all out in 36.5 overs, with captain Ejiofor Chiemezie (18 off 32) leading from the front. Okoye Obinna’s unbeaten 22 off 20 balls provided a crucial late flourish, while Ojo David C (18) and Ibe Chigamezu Micheal (15) made key contributions.
South West captain Peter Isari spearheaded the bowling attack with 3 wickets for 29 runs, supported by
Eboka Paul, Oladejo Emmanuel, and Orimolade Pelumi, who each claimed two wickets.
Chasing 146, South West struggled to build sustained partnerships and was eventually bowled out for 122 in 32 overs, despite Balogun Daniel and Oladejo Emmanuel each scoring 25 runs.
South East’s bowling unit proved decisive, led by Onya Chukwuemeka Samuel (3/22), with Okoye Obinna (2/23) and captain Ejiofor Chiemezie (2/35) ensuring victory and securing the championship.
Following the semi-final stage, South South Male were officially awarded third place, based on their superior Net Run Rate (NRR) accumulated during the knockout rounds, reflecting their consistent performance throughout the tournament.
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The NCF PwC National U17 Championship continues to serve as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s cricket development pathway, providing a competitive platform for young athletes across the country to showcase their talent, gain high-level exposure, and progress into national youth programs.
Speaking at the conclusion of the tournament, officials of the Nigeria Cricket Federation commended the participating teams, coaches, match officials, and partners particularly PwC Nigeria for their continued support in nurturing the next generation of Nigerian cricket stars.
With remarkable talent on display and several standout performances across both categories, the 7th edition of the championship has once again reinforced Nigeria’s growing reputation as a rising force in youth cricket development across Africa.
FINAL TOURNAMENT STANDINGS
Boys Category:
Champions – South East
Runners-Up – South West
Third Place – South West
Individual awardees
Best Behaved: Useni Mustapha (North East)
Most Promising: Princewill Chigozie (South South)
Best Fielder: Ejiofor Chimezie (South East)
Best Bowler: Peter Isari (South West)
Best Batter : Balogun Daniel (South West)
MVP: Echem Chukwuemeka (South East)
Girls Category:
Champions – South East
Runners-Up – South South
Third Place – South South
Individual awardees
Best Behaved: Jemima Usman (North East)
Most Promising: Ude Sunshine (South East)
Best Fielder: Oni Oluwa Damilola (South West)
Best Bowler: Azeez Kehinde (South West)
Best Batter : Ezeali Godsgift (South East)
MVP: Echem Chukwuemeka (South East) Okpe Chizome (South East)
