Kaduna-Teams from six states are currently battling for honours at the third edition of the Arewa Zonal Cricket Competition holding in Kaduna.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the competition is taking place at the Murtala Mohammed Square Cricket Pitch and features Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara.
Prof. Yahaya Ukwenya, North West Zonal representative on the Cricket Federation Board, told newsmen that the competition was attracting more states.
“We are happy that more states and by extension Nigerians are becoming interested in the game of cricket.
“At the first edition, only three states featured, the second edition attracted four states and now we have an unprecedented six states participating,” he said.
Ukwenya, who sponsored the event, said funding challenges had limited efforts to expand the competition.
“We received calls from Kwara, FCT and other states which are not even from the North West Zone, indicating interest to participate.
“We could not welcome them because of lack of funds. Our budget could not accommodate more states.
“You know, cricket is an expensive game to sponsor.
“Most of the equipment are brought in from abroad and with the current exchange rate, it is even more challenging,” he said.
