Nigeria’s cricket leadership has hailed the inaugural Nigeria Super League as a watershed moment for the sport in the country after the competition concluded on Saturday.
Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) president Uyi Akpata and Local Organising Committee (LOC) chair Seun Odeku both described the first NSL season as a landmark step forward, following a successful 20-match campaign that culminated in a gripping final.
Speaking after the Middle-Belt Tigers edged past the Southern Sharks by six runs in a thrilling title showdown at TBS Cricket Oval in Lagos, the two administrators said they felt immense pride in the way the maiden tournament was staged and competed.
Akpata said the event surpassed expectations across talent, intensity, and professionalism, calling it a critical milestone for strengthening the game and helping Nigeria establish a stronger presence on the global cricket scene.
Odeku shared the same optimism, describing the debut edition as a springboard for future seasons and adding that preparations are already in motion to ensure the next tournament grows bigger, becomes more challenging, and leaves a greater impact.
The final itself proved a fitting climax to the league as the Middle-Belt Tigers set the tone by batting first, compiling 104 runs for the loss of five wickets in their 10-over innings.
Solomon Chilemanya provided early momentum with a rapid 17 from seven balls, while Olayinka Elijah Olaleye contributed a steady 21. A late surge featuring David N.A. Ankrah, who struck 22 off 10 deliveries, plus an unbeaten 19 from Eghosa Aghedo Destiny, carried the Tigers beyond the 100-run mark.
In reply, the Southern Sharks made a spirited chase built around Isesele Odion Evangel’s 26 from 21 balls and captain Isaac Okpe’s quick 15 from seven. Even so, the Tigers’ bowling attack stayed controlled when the pressure rose. Tournament’s leading wicket-taker Ndubudem Elochukwu David delivered the decisive burst, taking two wickets while conceding just 14 runs, and further wickets from Awodele Shina, captain Runsewe Sulaimon, and Ankrah helped keep the Sharks to 98 runs for seven wickets.
Earlier on the day, the Northern Lions secured third place with a commanding 32-run triumph over the Central Eagles. In a rain-affected match reduced to five overs per side, the Lions posted 60 for three before bowling the Eagles out for 28.
Most Valuable Player: Isaac Danladi (Southern Sharks) — 168 runs & 13 wickets in 7 innings
Best Batter: Solomon Chilemanya (Middle-Belt Tigers) — 172 runs in 8 innings
Best Bowler: Ndubudem Elochukwu David (Middle-Belt Tigers) — 14 wickets in 8 innings
Best Fielder: Ridwan Kareem (Northern Lions) — 6 dismissals in 8 innings
Outstanding Young Player: Ismail Abdullahi (Southern Sharks)
Most Valuable Player: Isaac Danladi (Southern Sharks) — 168 runs and 13 wickets in 7 innings
