In a major cricketing upset, 14th-ranked Namibia defeated South Africa by 18 runs in the opening match of the T20 Tri-Series. The victory marks Namibia’s second consecutive T20 International win over the Proteas, preserving a perfect 100% winning record across their two head-to-head encounters. Historic Milestone for Associate Cricket Record Feat: Namibia has become the first Associate nation in T20I history to defeat South Africa twice, following their earlier 4-run victory in the 2025 Tri-Series. Exclusive Club: The Netherlands is the only other Associate side to have beaten South Africa in T20Is, achieving the feat during the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Match Summary Namibia’s Innings (163/9 in 20 Overs): Put into bat after South Africa won the toss, Namibia launched a strong assault via an 84-run opening stand. Jan Frylinck top-scored with a brisk 60 off 38 balls (6 fours, 2 sixes), supported by Louren Steenkamp’s 41 off 29 balls. Despite South Africa pulling things back in the middle overs through Prenelan Subrayen (3 wickets) and Bjorn Fortuin (2 wickets), Namibia posted a competitive 163. South Africa’s Chase (145/9 in 20 Overs): Chasing 164, South Africa suffered early top-order setbacks against a disciplined Namibian bowling attack. Dewald Brevis anchored the innings with an aggressive 75 off 50 deliveries (4 fours, 5 sixes). However, his dismissal in the 18th over derailed the chase. An unbeaten 25 off 17 balls from Duan Jansen was not enough to prevent South Africa from falling 18 runs short. Post navigation Sehwag and Dravid’s Sons Included in India U19 Squad Against Australia
