Nigeria’s senior men’s cricket team began their ICC T20 Men’s World Cup Africa Qualifier campaign with a convincing nine-wicket victory over Malawi in Harare, Zimbabwe.
After winning the toss on Friday at the Takasinga Sports Club, Nigeria elected to field and quickly seized control. Their disciplined bowling attack dismissed Malawi for just 88 runs in 19.3 overs. Ridwan Abdulkareem led the effort with three wickets for 24 runs, while Chiemelie Udekwe claimed two for 11 and captain Sylvester Okpe took one for seven.
Chasing a modest target, Nigeria reached 92 for one in only 11.2 overs. Sulaimon Runsewe starred with a half-century, his first of the tournament, ensuring a comfortable win for the Yellow Greens.
Nigeria will face Namibia in their next group match on Sunday. The eight-team qualifier offers the top two sides a place at the 2026 ICC T20 Men’s World Cup.