Namibia has dramatically secured its place in a fourth consecutive T20 World Cup, following a commanding 63-run victory over Tanzania in the African qualifier held at Harare Sports Club. The undisputed star of the match was all-rounder JJ Smit, whose exceptional performance included an unbeaten 61 runs and a crucial haul of three wickets for just 16 runs, single-handedly guiding his team to triumph.
The victory means Namibia will be among the 16 teams competing in the next T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place from February 7 to March 8, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Initially put in to bat, Namibia faced a challenging start, finding themselves at 41 for four. However, Smit, alongside captain Gerhard Erasmus – who has previously led Namibia in all three of their prior World Cup appearances – forged a vital 88-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Smit’s explosive 43-ball innings featured four towering sixes and a boundary, while Erasmus played a steady hand, contributing 55 runs off 44 balls with six fours. Their partnership propelled Namibia to a competitive total of 174/6 in their allotted 20 overs.
In response, Tanzania’s chase never truly gained momentum. Despite opener Abhik Patwa’s effort of 31 runs from 31 deliveries, which included a six and three fours, the rest of the batting lineup crumbled under pressure. Tanzania was ultimately restricted to 111/8 in their 20 overs, falling far short of the target.
Support with the ball came from Ben Shikongo, who also claimed three wickets, solidifying Namibia’s comprehensive victory. The final African qualifying spot is still up for grabs, with hosts Zimbabwe set to battle Kenya later on Thursday to determine who joins Namibia.
Brief Scores:
- Namibia: 174/6 (JJ Smit 61*, G. Erasmus 55; K. Juma 2-29, A. Kimote 2-41)
- Tanzania: 111/8 (A. Patwa 31, M. Suthar 24; Smit 3-16, B. Shikongo 3-21)
- Result: Namibia won by 63 runs