The ICC U-19 Men’s World Cup Africa Qualifier will kick off in Lagos, on March 28, as six teams battle for the continent’s sole ticket to the World Cup.
Participating Teams and Arrivals
Namibia will be the first team to arrive in Lagos on Tuesday.
Other teams—Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Sierra Leone—are expected to arrive on Wednesday.
Hosts Nigeria are already in Lagos, preparing for the tournament.
Venue and Schedule
The tournament will be held at Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval and University of Lagos Cricket Oval (Akoka) from March 28 to April 6, 2025.
Teams will have a training session on March 27 before the tournament begins.
The opening matches on March 28:
Nigeria vs. Namibia at Tafawa Balewa Square Oval (9:30 AM)
Sierra Leone vs. Kenya at University of Lagos Cricket Oval
ICC Officials and Host Expectations
International Cricket Council (ICC) officials have already arrived in Nigeria to oversee the event.
Tournament coordinator, Emeka Igwilo, emphasized Nigeria’s role as a host:
“This is another opportunity for Nigeria to show how broad the game is growing.”
“We need to demonstrate talent development, administrative prowess, facility development, and community engagement.”
“I believe we are ready, and Nigeria will play an excellent host.”
The tournament winner will secure Africa’s only spot at the 2026 ICC U-19 Men’s World Cup.
