By Sharon Akhigbe Ekhiwere
Edo State-born, Nigerian International Cricketer (fast bowler) and Guinness award holder, Peter Aho has taken a major step forward in his professional career after completing a move to Dubai Capitals for the 2026 International League T20 season. His inclusion in the squad places one of Africa’s most exciting young talents on a major global stage and marks a significant moment in his rapid development.
Aho, born on 2 March 2003, first drew nationwide attention when he helped Nigeria qualify for the 2020 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup. It was the country’s first appearance at a cricket World Cup and a defining moment for the young pacer, who quickly became recognised as one of Nigeria’s brightest prospects.
He made his senior T20 International debut in September 2021 against Kenya during the Uganda Tri-Nation Series. A month later, he produced a historic spell against Sierra Leone with figures of six wickets for five runs, which remain the best bowling figures ever recorded in a men’s T20I match. The effort included a hat-trick and a five-wicket haul and earned him a place in the Guinness World Records.
Since then, Aho has grown into an important member of the Yellow Greens. He has featured in 17 T20 Internationals, scored 169 runs at an average of 15.36 and taken 22 wickets from 341 deliveries. His calm approach, sharp accuracy and ability to make breakthroughs at crucial moments have made him one of the team’s most trusted bowlers.
His move comes ahead of the 2026 International League T20, also known as DP World ILT20 2026. The competition, organised by the Emirates Cricket Board, will be the fourth season of the franchise league. It is scheduled to begin on 2 December 2025, with the final set for 4 January 2026. Dubai Capitals enter the new campaign as defending champions after securing the title last season.
Aho will join a squad led by Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka and coached by Hemang Badani. The Capitals have reached the final in each of the last two editions, establishing themselves as one of the tournament’s strongest sides. For Aho, the move offers a valuable opportunity to compete in a competitive environment that features some of the world’s top T20 players.
His transfer is also an encouraging sign for Nigerian cricket. It highlights the progress of the national development structure and provides young players with a clear example of how far talent and consistency can go. Administrators and fans alike view Aho’s rise as a boost for the sport’s visibility in the country.
As preparations continue for ILT20 2026, the spotlight will be on Aho as he prepares to test himself at a higher level. His journey remains a source of pride for Nigerian cricket and a strong indication of the nation’s growing presence in world cricket.