By Akanimo Kufre
The Achimota Cricket Oval was full of emotions as Nigeria’s female cricket team laboured to give birth to a new ICC cricket history. The stage was set for a star to shine and a Commonwealth Africa 11 batter; Salome Sunday helped Nigeria win the bronze medal after defeating Uganda by 3 wickets.
Nigeria was chasing a low runs target of 77 after their dreaded bowling attack restricted the 4th-ranked Ugandan team in the first inning. Peculiar Agboya dismissed 3 wickets while Lillian Ude and Christabel Chukwunoye both had wickets while Shola Adekunle made 1 dismissal.
When Nigeria’s batting was shaken with a quick fall of the first 3 wickets. Salome stepped up to the call and delivered Nigeria contributing a vital 37 runs off 50 balls.
The game went to the wire as Nigerian finally broke into wild celebrations when Piety Lucky played four runs to end the game with 4 balls remaining in the 20th over.
Salome Sunday won the Player of the Match Award to celebrate Nigeria’s victory and bronze medal.
A top cricket sponsor and Nigeria Cricket Federation, (NCF) board member, Sir Chika Okoro applauded the girls for their effort and hard work.
“For me, it was a win we needed by all costs and I am happy the girls rose to the occasion. They have shown what hard work can get and God is on our side we won.” The physically excited Okoro reacted after watching the game from the VIP Stand.
Sir Okoro is on the NCF Board as South East Representative. He also funds the Sir Chika Okoro Cricket tournament for the 5 eastern states in Nigeria.