The Middle Belt Tigers have etched their name in history by winning the inaugural Nigeria Cricket Super League, defeating the Southern Sharks by six runs in a thrilling final at the TBS Cricket Oval in Lagos on Saturday.
The championship clash brought an exciting conclusion to the maiden edition of the Nigeria Super League, which featured 20 matches showcasing elite talent, fierce competition, and the continued growth of cricket in Nigeria.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, the Middle Belt Tigers posted a competitive total of 104 runs for the loss of five wickets in their allotted 10 overs in a high-intensity contest.
Solomon Chilemanya set the tone early with a blistering 17 runs off just seven balls, smashing two sixes and a boundary. Olaleye Olayinka Elijah added stability with a composed 21 off 14 deliveries, while David N.A Ankrah produced a crucial late-innings assault with 22 runs off only 10 balls, including three towering sixes. Eghosa Aghedo Destiny also contributed an unbeaten 19 as the Tigers crossed the 100-run mark to set the Southern Sharks a target of 105 for victory.
The Southern Sharks responded courageously and stayed in contention throughout the chase. Isesele Odion Evangel led the effort with a determined 26 off 21 balls, while captain Isaac Okpe injected momentum with a quick-fire 15 off seven deliveries. Kenneth Boniface and Durotoye Gideon also made valuable contributions as the Sharks pushed the contest deep into the final over.
However, the Middle Belt Tigers held their composure under pressure to restrict the Southern Sharks to 98 runs for seven wickets and secure a dramatic six-run victory. The Tigers' bowling attack delivered at key moments, with Ndubudem Elochukwu David starring with figures of two wickets for 14 runs in two overs. Awodele Shina also claimed two wickets, while captain Runsewe Sulaimon and David N.A Ankrah chipped in with one wicket apiece.
The triumph sealed the Middle Belt Tigers' place in history as the first-ever champions of the Nigeria Super League, capping off a remarkable campaign defined by resilience, consistency, and outstanding performances. Despite the narrow defeat, the Southern Sharks earned widespread praise for their spirited campaign and competitive display throughout the tournament.
Northern Lions Secure Third Place
Earlier in the day, the Northern Lions secured third place after a commanding 32-run victory over the Central Eagles in the playoff encounter. Batting first in the shortened five-over contest, the Northern Lions posted 60 runs for three wickets courtesy of explosive knocks from Elijah Saturday Jimmy, who blasted 15 off just five balls, and Akhere Isesele, who remained unbeaten on 18 off nine deliveries.
The Central Eagles struggled in response as the Northern Lions' disciplined bowling attack dismantled the batting lineup. Okasha Isiyaku struck twice early in the innings, while Beki Mubarak Kehinde and captain Okpe Sylvester also claimed two wickets each to seal an emphatic victory. The Central Eagles were eventually restricted to 28 runs for seven wickets, as the Northern Lions secured a deserved podium finish in the inaugural edition of the competition.
Federation and Organisers Laud Success
Speaking after the successful conclusion of the tournament, the President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, Uyi Akpata, praised the quality of cricket displayed throughout the competition and highlighted the league's importance in the continued development of the sport in Nigeria. He stated that the Nigeria Super League has exceeded expectations in its inaugural edition, with exceptional talent, competitiveness, and professionalism from all the teams involved. He added that the league is a major step forward in the Federation's vision to strengthen domestic cricket, provide a pathway for emerging talents, and position Nigeria strongly on the global cricket map.
Akpata also commended the players, officials, sponsors, media, and fans for contributing to the success of the competition while reaffirming the Federation's commitment to building a stronger and more sustainable league structure in future editions.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Super League Local Organising Committee (LOC), Seun Odeku, described the maiden edition as a huge success and expressed optimism that the next edition would be even bigger and better. He noted that this is only the beginning for the Nigerian Super League and that the response from players, stakeholders, and fans has been truly encouraging. He added that the LOC is already looking ahead to the next edition, which they believe will be bigger, more competitive, and more impactful for cricket development across the country.
