News

Namibia to host South Africa in landmark T20I

BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS - JUNE 06: Namibia players react to the big screen after a referral for the wicket of Brandon McMullen of Scotland during the ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup West Indies & USA 2024 match between Namibia and Scotland at Kensington Oval on June 06, 2024 in Bridgetown, Barbados. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

In a significant moment for Namibian cricket, the men’s national team will host neighbours South Africa for the first time in a match with senior international status, on October 11 at the new FNB Namibia Cricket Ground.

The ground inside the ropes has hosted international cricket thanks to a recent T20I series with Canada, though the match with the Proteas will be the first with the entire complex open, which includes Namibia’s High Performance centre, a restaurant and a hospitality wing.

The ground with a capacity of over 7000 will co-host the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2026 and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2027.

Cricket Namibia’s CEO Johan Muller looks forward to the fixture.

“This truly is a memorable occasion. The new FNB NCG has been a dream for the last four years and has finally materialized,” Muller stated.

“A match against our neighbours, and one of the top cricketing countries in the world, is the perfect way to open this world class facility.”

Cricket South Africa CEO Pholetsi Moseki understands the significance of the moment for the nation on the other side of the border.

“We are honoured to be part of this historic occasion.

“Namibia are a competitive side, and this fixture reflects the growing strength of cricket on the continent.”

A winning two off the final ball from Namibia wicket-keeper/batter Zane Green against Canada provided a fitting finish to the first international played at the new ground back in March.

You’re reading Emerging Cricket — brought to you by a passionate group of volunteers with a vision for cricket to be a truly global sport, and a mission to inspire passion to grow the game.

Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, please subscribe for regular updates, and follow EC on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Don’t know where to start? Check out our features list, country profiles, and subscribe to our podcast. Support us from US$2 a month — and get exclusive benefits, by becoming an EC Patron.

Daniel Beswick

One of the Emerging Cricket Co-Founders, Daniel is currently an integral part of the International Cricket Council's digital team via an external client, while commentating and presenting across several ICC events. Daniel has also been an statistician for cricket broadcasts around the world.