Abuja, Nigeria – 25 October 2026
Lesotho’s national men’s cricket team concluded its campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier C with a narrow three-run defeat against The Gambia in Abuja on Sunday.
The Gambia posted 112/9 in their allotted 20 overs before Lesotho were bowled out for 109 in 19.5 overs, falling just three runs short of their target. Despite the defeat, Lesotho demonstrated determination in a closely contested encounter that brought their tournament campaign to a close. Meanwhile, Nigeria and Uganda secured qualification for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final scheduled for 2027.
Gambia set a competitive target
The Gambia managed to post 112/9 after 20 overs, with captain Abubacarr Kuyateh top-scoring with 29 runs off 33 balls, while Musa Jorbateh contributed 20 runs from 13 deliveries. Lesotho’s bowling attack delivered a disciplined performance, led by Mohmed Duvesh Patel, who claimed four wickets for 18 runs in his four overs. Lefulere Monanthane also made an important contribution, taking two wickets for 17 runs in three overs, while Mohammed Inshaf Farook claimed one wicket for 13 runs in four overs.
The bowling effort kept Lesotho in contention and gave the team a target of 113 runs to secure victory.
Lesotho fall three runs short
Lesotho began their chase determined to finish the tournament on a positive note. However, The Gambia maintained pressure through disciplined bowling and regular wickets. Mohammed Inshaf Farook led Lesotho’s batting effort with 35 runs off 27 balls, including two fours and two sixes. Chachole Tlali added 15 runs off 21 deliveries as Lesotho attempted to keep pace with the required run rate. The Gambia’s Aniru Conteh proved decisive, claiming four wickets for 24 runs in four overs. Andre Jarju supported the effort with two wickets for 11 runs in four overs. Lesotho were eventually dismissed for 109 in 19.5 overs, handing The Gambia a three-run victory. Patel’s four-wicket haul earned him the Player of the Match award.
Lesotho’s campaign in perspective
Lesotho began the tournament positively with a victory over Mozambique, demonstrating the team’s ability to compete at international level. However, subsequent matches against Uganda, Zambia and hosts Nigeria presented significant challenges. The final defeat against The Gambia underlined the fine margins that often determine outcomes in T20 cricket. The campaign provided valuable international exposure for the players and technical team, while highlighting areas requiring further development as Lesotho prepares for future competitions.
Nigeria and Uganda advance to the continental stage
Nigeria and Uganda secured the two qualification places available from the sub-regional tournament, earning their places in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final in 2027. Nigeria benefited from home-ground advantage and produced a strong campaign, while Uganda also demonstrated consistency in its performances throughout the competition.
The two teams will now turn their attention to the next stage of the African qualification pathway, where they will compete against other qualified sides for an opportunity to progress further towards the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2028. Their qualification marks an important milestone in their respective campaigns, while the remaining teams will use the experience gained in Abuja to strengthen their preparations for future international assignments.
Looking ahead
For the Lesotho Cricket Association (LCA), the tournament offers an opportunity to assess the national team’s performance, identify areas for improvement and build on the experience gained by the players. Lesotho’s opening victory against Mozambique demonstrated its potential, while the narrow loss to The Gambia showed how closely contested international matches can be decided by only a few runs.
Continued investment in player development, technical preparation, high-performance training and international match exposure will remain important in improving the competitiveness of Lesotho’s national team. The LCA appreciates the commitment and efforts of the players and technical team throughout the tournament and remains dedicated to developing cricket in Lesotho and strengthening the country’s presence on the international stage.
Lesotho Cricket Association
Developing cricket and representing Lesotho with pride.
By Dr Clifford Molefe
LCA Team Manager and Media Liaison Officer
