The Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval in Lagos is set to host the 2026 edition of the Nigeria Women’s Invitational T20I Tournament, with the hosts announcing their squad ahead of the much-anticipated competition. Now renamed the Patricia Kambarami Cup, the tournament holds special significance for the Nigeria Women’s team, who will be aiming to make a strong impression in front of their home supporters after finishing as runners-up in the previous edition.
Nigeria will be led by all-rounder Piety Lucky, who brings leadership experience after guiding the country’s Under-19 side at the World Cup. The squad combines experienced campaigners with emerging talent, signalling a fresh phase for the national setup. Senior players such as Salome Sunday and Sarah Etim are expected to provide stability and composure in pressure situations, while the inclusion of debutants Favour Effiong, Henrietta Mbam and Queen Joseph underlines the expanding player pool within Nigerian women’s cricket.
Head coach Theophilus Ibodeme will be looking to shape a competitive unit capable of challenging regional rivals and adapting to the demands of a multi-team tournament. Nigeria will face opposition from Ghana and Rwanda, along with the Under-19 sides of South Africa and Zimbabwe, offering the players valuable exposure against a variety of playing styles.
The expanded five-team competition is also seen as an important opportunity for the Female Yellow Greens to enhance their standing in international cricket and continue the development of the women’s game in the region. With home advantage and growing local support, Nigeria will be eager to deliver consistent performances throughout the tournament.
Beyond the results, the event represents another milestone in the progress of women’s cricket in the country, highlighting the pathway from grassroots initiatives to international competition. As the tournament gets underway, the hosts will aim to combine determination and teamwork in their pursuit of success on home soil.
Nigeria Women Squad:
Anointed Akhigbe, Christabel Chukwuonye, Esther Sandy, Favour Effiong, Henrietta Mbam, Kehinde Amusa, Lilian Ude, Peace Usen, Piety Lucky, Queen Joseph, Salome Sunday, Sarah Etim, Shola Adekunle, Victory Igbinedion, Omosigho Eguakun.
