Fresh from a morale-boosting 11-run win over favourites Ireland on Tuesday, the Richelieu Eagles of Namibia will today square off against the Chevrons of Zimbabwe for their second T20 World Cup warm-up clash at the Junction Oval in Melbourne, Australia.
The warm-up encounters are part of Namibia’s final preparations for the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which starts this Sunday and ends on 13 November in Australia. Namibia is in Group A with the Netherlands, Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
On Tuesday, the Richelieu Eagles, who are led by skipper Gerhard Erasmus, had a better experience in their opening warm-up match as they strolled to a comfortable 11-run victory over Ireland. After being put in to bat first, Namibia scored 138 runs for the loss of four wickets.
Captain Erasmus top-scored with an unbeaten 34 runs. Later, Namibia bowled Ireland out for 127 runs in 19.5 overs. Ireland lost their last six wickets for 27 runs. Ben Shikongo picked up three wickets and was the pick of the bowlers for his side. Ruben Trumpelmann, David Wiese, and Jan Frylinck all picked up two wickets apiece.
Today’s opponent Zimbabwe had a contrasting start to their warm-ups as they suffered a 33-run defeat against Sri Lanka at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Tuesday.
After opting to bowl first, Zimbabwe faltered as Sri Lanka scored 188/5.
Wanindu Hasaranga’s unbeaten 14-ball 37 runs rattled Zimbabwe to some extent. Later, Zimbabwe scored 155/5 in 20 overs. Wesley Madhevere and Milton Shumba scored 42 and 32 runs, respectively. Regis Chakabva and Ervine played handy knocks as well.
Today’s clash will be of huge interest, as Namibia will be gunning to maintain their perfect run ahead of the World Cup kick-off, while Zimbabwe, on the other hand, will be aiming to secure victory and hopefully start their World Cup campaign with heads held high.
- ohembapu@nepc.com.na