Nigeria’s women’s cricket coach, Leke Oyede, has unveiled his final 14-player squad for the 2026 ICC T20 Women’s World Cup Africa Qualifier, scheduled for August 28 to September 7 in Namibia.

In a bold move, Oyede left out some experienced names, including Captain Favour Eseigbe, Esther Sandy, and Abigail Igbobie. Taking up the leadership role instead is Peculiar Agboya, while wicketkeeper Sarah Etim will serve as vice-captain.

Also in the squad is Piety Lucky, who captained Nigeria at the U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup earlier this year in Malaysia. She is joined by a strong core from that team Lilian Ude, Shola Adekunle, Kehinde Amusa, Peace Usen, Victory Igbinedion, Anointed Akhigbe, Christabel Chukwuonye and Omosigho Eguakun.

Also handed a debut is Oseyande Omonkhobhio, while power hitter Salome Sunday and Racheal Samson complete the lineup.

Nigeria will face stiff competition in Namibia against Zimbabwe, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and the hosts. Only the top two teams will advance to the global qualifiers later this year.