Lagos: The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) says it is ready to host five other nations for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Under 19 Men’s World Cup African Qualifier. The tournament is billed for Lagos, with the matches to be held at the cricket ovals in Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) and the University of Lagos (Unilag) from March 26 to April 6.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, Uyi Akpata, President of the federation, stated that the tournament is about celebrating the growth of the game on the continent. He expressed Nigeria’s excitement in welcoming talented young cricketers and their supporters to Lagos. Akpata emphasized Nigeria’s reputation for hospitality and cricketing potential, and the country’s commitment to making the qualifier a memorable experience for all.

Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, Tanzania, and Sierra Leone will join Nigeria in the competition, with all teams vying for the continent’s sole ticket to the 2026 ICC Under 19 Men’s World Cup. Nigeria aims to replicate its 2019 success when it secured a spot in the World Cup and competed in South Africa in 2020.