Namibia look to build on impressive showing at T20 World Cup
Namibia look to build on impressive T20 showing
JOHANNESBURG, November 10 (ANA) – In their debut at the T20 Cricket World Cup, minnows Namibia were not expected to provide much entertainment – let alone beat some of their higher-ranked opposition which saw them draw praise from all quarters.
On the whole, it was a hugely successful campaign for Gerhard Erasmus and his charges, who leave the United Arab Emirates with three victories, one of which came over full International Cricket Council member Ireland to secure a Super 12 spot and automatic qualification for next year’s tournament in Australia.
Rolling over Scotland to open their Super 12 account, Namibia proved their mettle at the next level, despite four losses after that point.
Namibia were strong with both ball and bat throughout the middle overs, but it felt like the Southern African nation, often fielding first, let the game go from their grasp with expensive overs at the death, and a slow start in reply.
That was underlined by their encounter with New Zealand. Smothering the Black Caps at 96/4 from 16 overs, the Namibians let their opponents escape their clutches, leaking 67 runs in the final five overs.
In response, Namibia’s opening pair struggled to bring their side back into the game, mustering only 36 in the Powerplay, allowing the required run rate to rise out of reach.
With a spot for the first round in Australia sewn up, the Eagles will be relieved to avoid the T20 World Cup Qualifier next year, with a number of teams threatening to squeeze into the tournament’s 16 spots.
Meticulous in their in-house preparation and with a tight-knit group, the side will go back to the drawing board for their Australian assault, debriefing on the lessons from their successful run in 2021.
Should everyone return for next year’s tournament, and improvements are made in certain match situations, one feels Namibia can build on their three wins in UAE. – African News Agency (ANA), Editing by Michael Sherman