The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has stepped up preparations for the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Division 1 Qualifier in Tanzania, with the Junior Female YellowGreens entering the final stages of their open camping programme in Benin City, Edo State.
As part of the selection process, the coaching crew has reduced the training squad from 22 to 18 players, leaving those retained to compete for places in the final team that will represent Nigeria at the continental qualifier.
The ongoing phase of camp is focused on assessing players in a high-performance environment, with emphasis on technical skills, tactical awareness, teamwork and role definition. The players will also take part in intensive training sessions and practice matches against the senior women’s national team and other selected opposition to evaluate their readiness for international competition.
Head coach Sarah Bakhita said the objective of the camp goes beyond identifying talented players, stressing that building a cohesive and disciplined team remains a priority.
“This phase of camp is focused on bringing the players together as a team, defining and mastering individual roles, and creating an environment where everyone understands their responsibilities. The practice matches will provide valuable opportunities to assess our progress and ensure we are prepared for the challenges ahead,” she said.
According to the federation, the open camp is a vital component of its long-term high-performance development programme, providing young cricketers with a structured pathway to national selection while instilling the standards expected of players representing Nigeria on the international stage.
Competition for places in the final squad remains keen, with players being evaluated on performance, consistency, discipline, adaptability and their ability to deliver under pressure.
The 18 players currently in camp are Christabel Chukwuonye, Shola Adekunle, Omosigho Eguakun, Beauty Oguai, Jessica Bienni, Deborah Bassey, Inyene Ubong, Peace Usen, Anointed Akhigbe, Chisom Okpe, Precious Simon, Jennifer Godwin, GodsGift Ezeali, Promise Oko-otu, Elizabeth Emmanuel, Praise Onaghise, Glory Idiahi and Favour Effiong.
The Junior Female YellowGreens will continue preparations in Benin City as the coaching crew moves closer to naming the final squad for the Africa Division 1 Qualifier in Tanzania.
