The Eagles of Namibia are through to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024
In a display of unwavering dominance, Namibia has clinched the first of two coveted spots in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, set to be held in the vibrant West Indies and USA. Their remarkable qualification was sealed with an emphatic 58-run victory over Tanzania on day seven of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier in Windhoek. With one match still to play, Namibia has rightfully earned its place as the first team to secure a ticket to the global cricketing spectacle.
Namibia’s Dominant Performance
The Eagles, captained by Gerhard Erasmus, have now earned a spot in their third consecutive Men’s T20 World Cup. Their previous appearances include the 2021 and 2022 events co-hosted by the UAE and Oman and Australia.
Namibia’s campaign kicked off with a dominant performance, bundling out pre-event favorites Zimbabwe for 132 for 8 in the opening game. This secured them a convincing seven-wicket win. A well-executed six-wicket victory against Uganda followed, with David Wiese’s four crucial scalps ensuring a limited total of 114 for the East Africans. Namibia’s batting prowess was further evident when they posted an impressive 207 for three against Rwanda, securing a 68-run win via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern Method.
A Tense Encounter Against Kenya
In a tense encounter against Kenya, Namibia faced early setbacks, losing four wickets inside nine overs. However, they overcame these challenges, reaching the target of 104 for six with a match-winning partnership between Jan Frylinck (57*) and Johannes Jonathan Smit (14*).
Solid Starts Propel Namibia to Victory
In their pursuit of a special achievement, Namibia’s top order provided solid starts, with Smit’s aggressive 40 leading the charge. The lower order, featuring Zane Green (18) and Nicol Loftie-Eaton (14* from five balls), made significant contributions as they set a formidable target of 157 for six.
Tanzania Falls Short
The hosts’ victory proved more than enough for Tanzania, with only Amal Rajeevan the main contributor in the chase. His 41 from 45 balls was not enough as Tanzania was restricted to 99 for six.
Celebrating a Proud Achievement
As intermittent rain disrupted play in Windhoek City in the mid-afternoon, the entire nation celebrated a proud achievement by captain Gerhard Erasmus and his charges. They have secured their place at the main event next year.
Battle for the Second Spot
Tomorrow will determine the remaining team to join Namibia as the continent’s representatives. The East African derby between Uganda and Kenya holds do-or-die significance. Meanwhile, Nigeria and Zimbabwe clash with the hopes of favorable mathematical outcomes. Tanzania and Rwanda will engage in a passionate East African derby, with both having already been eliminated from the competition.
We wish Namibia and the remaining teams all the best in their upcoming matches!
(Source ICC Media presser)
