By Our Correspondent

National News – The inaugural Nigeria Super League began on Saturday at the TBS Cricket Oval in Lagos, with Northern Lions and Middle-Belt Tigers recording impressive wins on the competition’s opening day.

The new cricket tournament attracted attention from fans and sports enthusiasts as teams battled for early dominance in the league.

Northern Lions secured a four-wicket victory against Southern Sharks in the opening fixture after producing a disciplined all-round performance.

Southern Sharks struggled to build momentum after choosing to bat first, as Reigneth Osagie delivered early breakthroughs that reduced them to six runs for two wickets in the opening over.

Danladi Isaac attempted to revive the innings with 26 runs from 33 balls, while Akhigbe Miracle added 22 runs.

However, regular wickets disrupted partnerships, and Southern Sharks were eventually bowled out for 89 runs in 20 overs.

Northern Lions captain Okpe Sylvester starred with the ball, claiming three wickets for nine runs.

Osagie and Beki Mubarak Kehinde also contributed with key wickets to restrict the Sharks to a modest total.

In response, wicketkeeper-batsman Hosanna Omokhobhio guided the chase with a composed 30 runs off 24 deliveries, while captain Okpe added a quick 20 runs.

Despite resistance from Danladi Isaac and Isesele Odion Evangel, who claimed three wickets each, Northern Lions reached 92 for six in 15.4 overs to seal the historic victory.

The second match of the day also delivered excitement as Middle-Belt Tigers defeated Western Dolphins by four wickets.

Western Dolphins posted 129 for six in 20 overs after strong contributions from David Abiebhode, Ajekun Daniel, and Animashaun Muheez.

Middle-Belt Tigers responded confidently, with Solomon Chilemanya hitting an unbeaten 33 runs to guide his side home in 18.5 overs.

Captain Runsewe Sulaimon also impressed with both bat and ball to ensure his team started the Nigeria Super League campaign with a memorable win.