The Nigeria Club Cricket Committee (CCC) Premier League exploded back into action this weekend, marked by a devastating batting display at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Oval.
While the lower divisions have been active for weeks, all eyes turned to the top flight on Saturday. The opening round delivered a mix of aggressive power hitting, a narrow escape, and a frustrating weather delay.
Foundation CC’s Demolition Job
The most significant result of the weekend saw Foundation Cricket Club hand a harsh welcome to newly promoted Rocks Cricket Club. The Abeokuta-based newcomers were thrashed by 109 runs in a one-sided encounter.
Foundation CC won the toss and wasted no time dismantling the opposition bowling attack. David Ankrah, a recent addition to the national Yellow Greens squad, was the standout performer. He blasted a blistering 86 runs off just 29 balls, a knock that included seven boundaries and eight massive sixes.
He was supported by Bright Nyong (55 off 27 balls) and Elijah Saturday (50 off 38 balls). Their combined efforts propelled the team to a commanding total of 223 runs for the loss of four wickets in their 20 overs.
In response, Rocks CC crumbled under pressure. Their chase started poorly with early wickets, and they never recovered the necessary momentum. Ultimately, the new boys finished on 114 for five, falling well short of the target.
Champions Begin Defense
Meanwhile, at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Oval, defending champions Rising Stars successfully launched their title defense. They secured a comfortable 31-run victory over MRI Warriors.
Vishal Sharma was instrumental in the win. He earned the Player of the Match award after anchoring the innings with 56 runs from 41 deliveries, hitting eight boundaries and one six.
Thrills and Spills
The weekend also produced a nail-biting finish at the UNILAG venue. Federal Government College (FGC) Warri edged out Ibeju Lekki Cricket Club in a tense affair, securing victory by just one wicket.
However, not all teams saw action. The scheduled clash between Super Eagles Cricket Club and Island Titans Cricket Club at the TBS Oval was abandoned following a heavy downpour, leaving both sides to share the points.
