Southern Sharks defeated Middle-Belt Tigers by 17 runs on Friday to reach the Nigeria Super League final after a thrilling elimination clash in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the match was played at the TBS Cricket Oval, Lagos.
Southern Sharks produced a strong batting performance, posting 85 for six in 13 overs to set a challenging target.
Durotoye Gideon led the innings with 27 runs, while Danladi Isaac contributed 13 runs to strengthen the total.
Middle-Belt Tigers responded positively but were bowled out for 68 in 11.3 overs despite a determined effort.
Captain Runsewe Sulaimon scored 19 runs, but the Sharks’ bowlers maintained pressure throughout the chase.
Danladi Isaac starred with the ball, taking three wickets, while Akhigbe Miracle claimed two wickets to seal victory for Southern Sharks.
Middle-Belt Tigers later bounced back strongly in the second eliminator, defeating Central Eagles by six wickets to secure the second final ticket.
Central Eagles earlier posted 98 for nine in their 20 overs after Mohammed Moshood scored 32 runs and Chima Akachukwu added 26.
In reply, the Tigers produced a composed batting display and chased down the target in 17.2 overs.
Captain Runsewe led from the front with an unbeaten 38 runs, while Ndubudem Elochukwu David added 24 not out in the successful chase.
Earlier, Central Eagles edged Northern Lions by seven runs in another closely contested elimination fixture.
Chima Akachukwu scored 30 runs for Central Eagles, while Peter Aho impressed with three wickets to defend a total of 83.
With the elimination stage concluded, attention now shifts to Saturday’s final matches at the TBS Cricket Oval.
Northern Lions will face Central Eagles in the third-place playoff before Southern Sharks meet Middle-Belt Tigers in the final.
The Nigeria Super League has produced highly competitive cricket throughout the tournament, with organisers expecting an exciting conclusion to the championship.
