U19 Cricket team optimistic of World Cup ticket–Coach Gim
By Ijeoma Okigbo
Nigeria’s U19 Male Cricket team says it is hopeful of picking Africa’s sole ticket to the 2026 U19 International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s World Cup.
Daniel Gim, the head coach of the team, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday that the team was adequately prepared and ready to play the best of cricket at the Qualifiers.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Lagos will host the U19 World Cup Africa Qualifiers with six nations participating from March 28 to April 6.
With one world cup ticket at stake, Gim stressed the team’s readiness for the challenge.
“The team has prepared well, all thanks to the NCF, for giving us the support and the kind of preparation we desire to have.
“The preparations started a long time ago. At the time, we had about 38 players and after rigorous training and practice, we had to trim the number to 24.
” Subsequently, we reduced the number to 17 who are in camp now and from that number, we will name our final 14-man squad.
“We have had a series of training in Benin, Abuja and now Lagos, where we are set to welcome other countries and begin our quest for a world cup opportunity,’’ Gim said.
Gim also added that the players are confident but will not underrate any team.
“ The players are ready and are very confident. Over the couple of weeks, we have managed to improve their game to a certain level that their confidence level is so high.
“They are ready for the task ahead and we will not underrate or overrate any team but will look to play the best version of cricket.
“Although, we will have the fans on our side. Also, we are familiar with the wicket and weather conditions which will be to our advantage, but we will not be complacent.
“We have a very good batting and bowling side and our fielding is very fantastic. We are a balanced team and we want to play a game from both sides, whether bowling or batting,’’ Gim added.
NAN reports that Nigeria will host Uganda, Tanzania, Sierra Leone, Namibia and Kenya as all teams jostle to pick Africa’s lone qualifying slot to the World Cup. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
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- Senior Editor
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