Southern Sharks, Middle-Belt Tigers book Nigeria Super League final clash

Posted : 30 May 2026

The stage is set for an exciting Nigeria Super League final after Southern Sharks and Middle-Belt Tigers secured their places in the championship match following contrasting victories in the elimination rounds at the TBS Cricket Oval, Lagos.

Southern Sharks became the first team to reach the final after defeating Middle-Belt Tigers by 17 runs in a fiercely contested encounter.

The Sharks posted 85 for six in 13 overs, with Durotoye Gideon top-scoring with 27 runs while Danladi Isaac added 13 runs to provide crucial support.

In response, the Tigers struggled to keep pace with the required run rate and were eventually bowled out for 68 in 11.3 overs.

Captain Runsewe Sulaimon led the resistance with 19 runs, but the Sharks’ disciplined bowling attack proved decisive.

Danladi Isaac capped an impressive all-round performance by claiming three wickets, while Akhigbe Miracle picked up two wickets to guide Southern Sharks into the final.

However, Middle-Belt Tigers quickly recovered from the setback and earned a second chance at glory by defeating Central Eagles by six wickets in the second eliminator.

Central Eagles had earlier posted 98 for nine in their allotted 20 overs, thanks largely to Mohammed Moshood’s 32 runs and Chima Akachukwu’s contribution of 26.

The Tigers responded with a composed chase, reaching the target in 17.2 overs. Runsewe produced a captain’s innings with an unbeaten 38 runs, while Ndubudem Elochukwu David remained not out on 24 as the pair steered their side into the final.

Earlier in the day, Central Eagles had kept their hopes alive by edging Northern Lions by seven runs in another closely fought contest.

Akachukwu scored 30 runs to help Central Eagles post a competitive total of 83, while Peter Aho delivered a match-winning bowling performance with three wickets to restrict the Lions.

With the elimination phase completed, attention now turns to Saturday’s decisive fixtures at the TBS Cricket Oval.

Northern Lions and Central Eagles will battle for third place, while Southern Sharks and Middle-Belt Tigers renew their rivalry in the grand finale as both teams chase the Nigeria Super League title.

Organisers expect a thrilling conclusion to a tournament that has showcased some of the most competitive cricket seen in the country this season.

The upcoming championship final represents the culmination of intense domestic rivalry and exceptional sporting talent. Fans can look forward to a high-stakes encounter as both finalists seek to etch their names in the tournament's history. With momentum on both sides, the final match promises to deliver top-tier cricket action at the TBS Cricket Oval.

Southern Sharks, Middle-Belt Tigers book Nigeria Super League final clash

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