Namibia secure their spot in 2024 T20 World Cup

Namibia has become the first team from the Africa Region Qualifier to secure a place in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup. Their impressive journey reached its pinnacle with a convincing 58-run victory over Tanzania, marking their fifth consecutive win in the qualifier tournament.

This achievement marks Namibia’s third consecutive qualification for the T20 World Cup, showcasing their growing prowess in the cricketing world. Their debut in the UAE in 2021 saw them advance to the Super 12 stage, outshining Ireland and the Netherlands. However, they faced early elimination in the 2022 tournament in Australia.

The recent victory against Tanzania was powered by a stellar performance from JJ Smit, who scored an unbeaten 25-ball 40. Despite losing wickets in quick succession, Smit, along with Zane Green and Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, propelled Namibia to a competitive total.

On the other hand, Tanzania struggled in their pursuit of 158 runs, with Namibia’s Gerhard Erasmus emerging as the most successful bowler with figures of 2 for 17. Namibia’s dominant position in the Africa Region points table, with 10 points after five games, solidifies their status as the top team.

Zimbabwe stay in contention with a 144-run victory over Rwanda

While Namibia celebrated their success, Zimbabwe, the only Full Member in the tournament, stayed in contention with a resounding 144-run victory over Rwanda. Sikandar Raza’s captain’s knock of 58, coupled with strong performances from Tadiwanashe Marumani and Ryan Burl, guided Zimbabwe to a formidable total of 215 for 4.

With these results, Zimbabwe significantly improved their net run rate, placing them ahead of Uganda and Kenya in the points table. The competition in the Africa Region Qualifier intensifies as Zimbabwe looks to continue their qualification journey against Nigeria and Kenya in the upcoming matches.