Namibia defeats South Africa by 18 runs in T20I tri-series opener

Namibia secured a historic 18-run victory over South Africa in the opening match of the T20I tri-series at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek. This win marks Namibia’s second consecutive T20I victory against the Proteas, making them the first Associate nation to defeat South Africa twice in this format.

Batting first, Namibia posted 163/9 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by an 84-run opening partnership between Jan Frylinck, who scored 60 off 38 balls, and Louren Steenkamp, who contributed 41. South African bowlers Prenelan Subrayen (3/32) and Bjorn Fortuin (2/17) managed to slow the momentum in the middle overs.

In response, South Africa was restricted to 145/9. Despite a resilient 75 runs from Dewald Brevis, the Proteas' chase faltered after the dismissal of Brevis by Ruben Trumpelmann. Namibia’s bowling attack was led by Trumpelmann and JJ Smit, who both claimed three wickets to seal the win. The tri-series also includes Zimbabwe.