Nigeria have taken an early lead in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier C in Abuja after winning their opening two matches, with Uganda keeping pace as both teams target the two available spots in the next stage of the 2027 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier.

The latest standings, released on Thursday, October 22, show Nigeria topping the six-team table with four points from two matches and an impressive net run rate of 5.6129.

Uganda occupy second place with the same four points but a net run rate of 3.8635, setting up an early contest between the two sides for top position in the competition.

Lesotho and Mozambique sit third and fourth respectively, with two points apiece after recording one victory and one defeat. Zambia and The Gambia are yet to register a win.

The tournament began on October 20 at the twin cricket ovals in Abuja, bringing together Nigeria, Uganda, Lesotho, Mozambique, Zambia and The Gambia in a round-robin competition, with the top two teams advancing to the next phase of the global qualification pathway.

Nigeria’s strong start offers encouragement to the host nation as its senior men’s team seeks to build on the country’s recent progress in international cricket. That progress includes the qualification of Nigeria’s Under-19 women’s team for the ICC Women’s Under-19 World Cup for a second consecutive time and the promotion of the Under-19 men’s team to Division One.

Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, welcomed the participating teams and officials to Abuja, describing the competition as an important platform for showcasing Africa’s growing cricket talent and strengthening sporting partnerships across the continent.

Olopade also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, corporate organisations, the Cricket Federation and individuals for their support in hosting the tournament.

With Nigeria and Uganda leading the standings, the battle for the two qualification places remains open as the teams continue their campaigns in Abuja.

Fans can follow the tournament live on ICC.tv.