Namibia created history on Sunday when they defeated Ireland by five wickets in Windhoek to win their first bilateral ODI series against a Full Member, taking the five-match series 3-2 on home soil.
The result bodes well for the side ahead of next year’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, which Namibia will co-host with South Africa and Zimbabwe.
JJ Smith and Jack Brassell shared seven wickets to skittle Ireland for just 129. Decent batting from opener Louren Steenkamp (42) and skipper Gerhard Erasmus (30) then ensured a simple run chase and an impressive series triumph.
Erasmus was named Player of the Series for his 263 runs and four wickets across the five matches. Smith was named Player of the Match in the series finale after taking 4/20 from nine economical overs.
Only four Ireland players reached double figures in the series finale, and skipper Lorcan Tucker was bitterly disappointed with his team’s performance.
“Obviously, it was a disappointing day for us,” Tucker said.
“We came here today excited about the opportunities with the series on the line, but I don’t think we quite rocked up from a skills perspective.
“We have learned a lot, but I think we’ve a lot to reflect on going forward.
“Credit to Namibia, they played diligent cricket and did that for longer periods of time than us – that’s why they won the series today.”
CWC27 is coming to South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia
The road to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 leads to South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Ireland have already booked their place at next year’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier through their position on the ICC Men’s ODI Team Rankings. Namibia will likely have to earn their place through the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier Play-off.
Series results
- First ODI: Windhoek, Ireland won by 55 runs
- Second ODI: Windhoek, Namibia won by 31 runs
- Third ODI: Windhoek, Namibia won by 63 runs
- Fourth ODI: Windhoek, Ireland won by 130 runs
- Fifth ODI: Windhoek, Namibia won by five wickets