Cricket World Cup: Nigeria beats Japan in historic win

Nigeria on Saturday finished off its maiden ICC Under 19 Cricket World Cup campaign with a historic first win after beating Japan by eight wickets at the Ibbies Oval in Potchefstroom, South Africa.

After bowling out Japan for 115, the Nigerian team reached the score with relative ease off 22.4 overs.

With the victory, the west African side will finish 15th on the overall tournament table while fellow Japan, debutant and an associate member nation, will take 16th in the standings.

There were many other memorable moments in the fixture played under hot conditions and a slow wicket.

Batting first, Japan reached triple figures for the first time, as Shu Noguchi (31) and Ishaan Fartyal (16) scored, while also benefiting from 30 extras from the Junior Yellow Green bowling.

Ifeanyi Uboh, Nigerian seamer and player of the match, picked up an impressive five for 23 with Taiwo Mohameed finishing with two for 13.

In the chase, openers Sulaimon Runsewe (56 not out) and Elijah Olaleye (21) ensured that their team had total control as they eyed a moderate target.

“As a team, we are excited about getting our first win. I am also happy to have taken my first five-wicket haul at international level. It will motivate me to do better,” Uboh said.

Japan captain Marcus Thurgate said: “We are disappointed with the results but we have enjoyed our stay in South Africa.

“We go back home with a lot of positives for our game and will come back stronger.”