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Former captain and wicket keeper of the Nigerian national men’s cricket team, Ademola Onikoyi, has retired from international cricket after a remarkable career spanning over 19 years.
His announcement comes off the back of the team’s recent outing at the 2023 African Games in Ghana, where they bowed out in the group stages. He is the second player to drop the bat in the male and female national team after former Female Yellow Greens captain, Blessing Etim, also announced her retirement at the end of the women’s event at the African Games.
Onikoyi made his debut for the senior team in 2004, after starting his journey in cricket at the junior level, where he honed his skills playing for Methodist Boys High School, Lagos.
The 36-year-old also played for various clubs and state teams, including the Lagos State cricket team, Kaduna cricket team, Howzat Pioneers, Ibeju Lekki Cricket Club, St Gregory’s Old Boys Association Cricket Club, Simba Cricket Club, London Nigeria Cricket Club and Sheen Park C.C.
In his official statement, Onikoyi expressed his gratitude to all those who supported him throughout his illustrious career.
“It has been an honour and privilege to wear the country’s colours and represent our team,” Onikoyi said.  “I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported me on and off the field throughout my international playing career. From the coaches to teammates, families, friends, Nigeria Cricket Federation, fans, critics, supporters, cricket families, and well-wishers, I am forever thankful for the push throughout those long years of service to this wonderful nation, Nigeria.”
The NCF through their Public Relations Officer, Musa Ehizoje, also thanked the player for his service to the country.
“As Onikoyi Ademola bids farewell to international cricket, the cricketing fraternity extends its heartfelt appreciation for his contributions to the sport. His leadership, skill, and dedication have left an indelible mark on Nigerian cricket, and his presence will be sorely missed on the field. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours and hope that his legacy will continue to inspire generations of cricketers in Nigeria and beyond,” the NCF stated.

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