Middle-Belt Tigers etched their name into Nigerian cricket history on Saturday after defeating Southern Sharks by six runs in a pulsating final to emerge champions of the inaugural Nigeria Super League (NSL).
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The Tigers produced a composed all-round performance in the title decider, posting 104/5 in their allotted 10 overs before restricting Southern Sharks to 98/7 to seal a memorable victory.
David Ankrah starred with the bat for the champions, smashing 22 runs off just 10 deliveries, while Elijah Olaleye contributed a valuable 21 off 14 balls to help Middle-Belt Tigers set a competitive target.
Southern Sharks fought hard in their chase, with Odion Isesele leading the resistance with 26 runs from 21 balls. Isaac Okpe added 15 runs off seven deliveries, but the Sharks ultimately fell short as the Tigers’ bowlers held their nerve in the closing stages.
Isaac Danladi was instrumental with the ball for the Tigers, returning figures of 2/19, while Ismail Abdullahi chipped in with 1/23 to ensure their side maintained control when it mattered most.
The victory crowned an impressive campaign for Middle-Belt Tigers, who demonstrated consistency, resilience, and championship character throughout the competition.
From the opening ball of the final to the last wicket, the contest delivered excitement and showcased the growing standard of cricket in Nigeria.
The triumph also marked a historic milestone as the Tigers became the first-ever champions of the Nigeria Super League.
Meanwhile, Northern Lions secured third place after defeating Central Eagles by 32 runs in a rain-reduced playoff encounter.
Batting first in the shortened five-over contest, Northern Lions posted 60/3, thanks largely to an unbeaten 18 from nine balls by Akhere Isesele and a quick-fire 15 off five deliveries from Saturday Elijah.
In response, Central Eagles struggled to build momentum and were restricted to 28/7 in their five overs. Peter Aho top-scored with 12 runs from nine balls, while Emmanuele Boniface added four runs from two deliveries.
Northern Lions’ bowlers proved too strong, with Peter Aho claiming 2/13 and Adebayo Samson taking 1/3 to help secure the victory and the bronze-medal position.
The conclusion of the inaugural Nigeria Super League marks another significant step in the development of cricket in the country, with the competition providing a platform for emerging talents and delivering exciting matches for fans across Nigeria.
