Nigeria made headlines with a stunning two-run win over New Zealand in their first-ever ICC U19 Women's T20 World Cup match. Playing a rain-affected 13-over game in Sarawak, Nigeria showcased resilience and skill to clinch a memorable victory.

Captain Lucky Piety set the tone by hitting Nigeria's maiden World Cup six, but New Zealand's disciplined bowling reduced the team to 28/3 after the powerplay.

Lilian Ude top-scored with 19, and Omosigho Eguakun's boundary on the final ball pushed Nigeria's total to 65/6.

In response, Nigeria struck early, dismissing Kate Irwin without facing a ball and removing Emma McLeod for just three runs. Despite steady contributions from Eve Wolland and Anika Todd, New Zealand faltered under pressure. Ude's remarkable final over sealed the deal, allowing just six runs and producing a crucial run-out off the last ball.

USA dominate Ireland with all-round performance

The USA made their mark with a commanding nine-wicket victory over Ireland in Johor. Isani Vaghela starred with the ball, taking 3/10 to dismantle Ireland's middle order, while Disha Dhingra's brilliant knock of 46 ensured a smooth chase.

Ireland struggled to build momentum, with Alice Walsh's 15 being the top score before Aditi Chudasama's off-spin triggered a collapse. Vaghela's disciplined bowling helped restrict Ireland to 74 all out in 17.4 overs.

Dhingra and Chetna Reddy Pagydyala formed a formidable opening partnership, adding 75 runs. Though Dhingra was bowled by Lara McBride just before the finish line, a boundary from Vaghela wrapped up the chase in just 9.4 overs.

Australia edge past Bangladesh in a thrilling finish

Australia avenged their 2023 defeat to Bangladesh with a tense two-wicket victory in Kuala Lumpur. Electing to bat, Bangladesh relied on Afia Ashima Era's 29 to post 91/9 despite Eleanor Larosa's early double strike.

Australia's chase got off to a promising start with Ines McKeon's boundaries, but Jannatul Maoua's three crucial wickets shifted the momentum. Regular strikes left Australia struggling, but Ella Briscoe and Tegan Williamson held their nerve to secure the win with four balls to spare.

Match Summaries

Australia vs. Bangladesh - UKM YSD Oval, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Bangladesh: 91/9 in 20 overs (Afia Ashima Era 29, Mst Sumaiya Akther Suborna 13; Tegan Williamson 2/12, Caoimhe Bray 2/18)

Australia: 92/8 in 19.2 overs (Lucy Hamilton 30, Kate Pelle 16; Jannatul Maoua 3/15, Habiba Islam Pinky 1/12)

Result: Australia won by two wickets

Ireland vs. USA - Dato' Dr. Harjit Singh Johor Cricket Academy Oval, Johor, Malaysia

Ireland: 75 all out in 17.4 overs (Alice Walsh 16, Lara McBride 13; Isani Vaghela 3/10, Ritu Singh 2/8)

USA: 79/1 in 9.4 overs (Disha Dhingra 46, Chetna Reddy Pagydyala 23 not out; Lara McBride 1/9)

Result: USA won by nine wickets

New Zealand vs. Nigeria - Borneo Cricket Ground, Sarawak, Malaysia

Nigeria: 65/6 in 14 overs (Lilian Ude 19, Piety Lucky 18; Hannah Francis 1/4, Anika Tauwhare 1/6)

New Zealand: 63/6 in 13 overs (Anika Todd 19, Tash Wakelin 18; Peace Usen 1/5, Piety Lucky 1/8)