The stage is now set for a thrilling conclusion to the Nigeria Super League following two intense elimination-stage encounters at the TBS Cricket Oval, Lagos.
Southern Sharks secured the first place in the final after defeating Middle-Belt Tigers by 17 runs in a rain-shortened contest. Batting first, the Sharks posted 85/6 in 13 overs, with Durotoye Gideon top-scoring with 27 runs, while Danladi Isaac added a brisk 13 runs to help set a competitive total.
In response, Middle-Belt Tigers put up a spirited fight but were eventually bowled out for 68 in 11.3 overs. Captain Runsewe Sulaimon led the resistance with a fighting 19 runs, but the Sharks’ bowling attack proved decisive. Danladi Isaac delivered a match-winning spell of 3 wickets, while Akhigbe Miracle supported admirably with 2 wickets to guide Southern Sharks into the final.
Middle-Belt Tigers, however, responded strongly in the second eliminator to claim the remaining final spot with a convincing six-wicket victory over Central Eagles. Central Eagles posted 98/9 in 20 overs, led by Mohammed Moshood’s 32 and Chima Akachukwu’s 26.
The Tigers chased the target in 17.2 overs, anchored by an unbeaten 38 from captain Runsewe Sulaimon and a valuable 24 not out from Ndubudem Elochukwu David, sealing their passage to the championship match.
