After two days of intense and entertaining action, Pakistan Shaheens have emerged champions of the maiden Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) Indoor Cricket Super-Six Tournament, defeating CCA Tigers by eight runs in a thrilling final at the Indoor Sports Hall, Package B, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
The keenly contested final showcased the growing popularity of indoor cricket in Nigeria, as both teams displayed skill, composure, and teamwork to the delight of spectators.
The Pakistan Embassy Eagles finished third in the nine-team competition, rounding off a strong showing by the visiting sides.
Pakistan Shaheens also dominated the individual honours, with Itiaz Alam clinching the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award and Waqas Khan named Best Batter of the tournament. Durotoye Gideon of CCA Tigers was recognised as the Best Bowler, while Pankaj Kumar walked away with the Best Fielder award.
Speaking after the final, Emeka Igwilo, General Manager of the NCF, said the tournament marked a new phase for Nigerian cricket as the federation continues to diversify its competitions and attract wider participation through modified versions of the game.
“Modified games are among the competitions recognised by the International Cricket Council for the ICC Scorecard, hence why the Nigeria Cricket Federation is backing this trend,” Igwilo explained.
“Indoor cricket is going to unveil more exciting possibilities, including games played under the lights, which will further expand the appeal and reach of the sport across the country.”
He added that several state cricket associations are already exploring ways to replicate the indoor cricket model, as part of efforts to raise the standard of domestic cricket for both men and women nationwide.
The Indoor Cricket Super-Six format a six-a-side, fast-paced version of the sport is recognised by the International Cricket Council (ICC) as an innovative approach to making cricket more accessible and engaging for new audiences.
With the successful completion of the maiden edition, the NCF says the tournament will now become a regular feature in its annual calendar, paving the way for greater grassroots participation and international collaboration.