Windhoek, Namibia – In a thrilling debut at its new cricket ground, Namibia stunned South Africa with a four‑wicket victory in a high‑pressure match on Saturday. The win marked the first time Namibia had beaten a full‑member Test side, adding to their growing reputation on the world stage.
The South African team was without many of its top players, who were touring Pakistan for a Test match in Lahore. The lineup that took the field in Windhoek was therefore largely inexperienced, but the hosts wasted no time. Namibia won the toss, chose to bat, and put the pressure on the visitors early. South Africa was 82‑6 after the 13th over, a telling sign that the slower pitch was not helping anyone.
Quinton de Kock was expected to lead the South African batting effort, but his hopes were dashed when Namibia’s captain, Gerhard Erasmus, caught a misplayed ball, sending de Kock out for just 1 run. Namibia’s bowlers capitalised, and the rest of the innings fell apart. Ruben Trumpelmann was the standout, claiming a 3‑for‑28 spot in just four overs.
South Africa finished its 20‑over innings at 134‑8. The most productive partnership was a 37‑run stand for the seventh wicket between Jason Smith and Bjorn Fortuin. In spite of a solid 31 from Smith, the runs didn’t add up on the slow pitch.
When Namibia went in to chase, they were 84‑5 after the 13th over – almost a mirror of the South African score. Two quick wickets early on meant that the game could tip either way. Yet the hosts fought back. Erasmus scored a quick 21, and Malan Kruger hit 18 off 21 balls. Namibia needed just 32 runs from the last three overs to win.
The pressure moments came toward the end. Zane Green and Trumpelmann added nine runs when the last over was bowled, leaving a small margin. Green hit a quick double to bring runs up to 12, and on the very next ball, he smashed a six. Trumpelmann followed with a four that sealed the historic win for Namibia.
South Africa’s on‑field woes enlarged when Gerald Coetzee left after only three balls of the second innings with a pectoral muscle injury. The hurt means he may miss the upcoming T20I series in Pakistan, adding to the series of setbacks for the Proteas.
This victory puts Namibia among a growing list of Associate teams that have beat full‑member nations, following successes by Zimbabwe, Ireland and Sri Lanka. For Namibia fans, the match was a proud moment at the new ground, and for cricket fans worldwide, it was a reminder that the sport can surprise at any level.
Source: aninews
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
