Image credit: Namibia Cricket
They defeated Ireland by five wickets in the fifth and final ODI in Windhoek to seal the five-match series 3-2. Fast bowlers JJ Smith and Jack Brassell played a key role in the win, sharing seven wickets between them to bowl Ireland out for just 129 runs. In reply, opener Louren Steenkamp scored 42 runs, while captain Gerhard Erasmus contributed 30 to guide Namibia to a comfortable five-wicket victory. ODI Venue Result 1st ODI Windhoek Ireland won by 55 runs 2nd ODI Windhoek Namibia won by 31 runs 3rd ODI Windhoek Namibia won by 63 runs 4th ODI Windhoek Ireland won by 130 runs 5th ODI Windhoek Namibia won by five wickets
The historic victory is a big boost for Namibia ahead of next year’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, which they will co-host with South Africa and Zimbabwe. Ireland struggled with the bat, with only four players managing to score in double figures. Namibia created history on Sunday by winning their first-ever bilateral ODI series against a Full Member nation.
Ireland captain disappointed with performance
Erasmus was named Player of the Series after scoring 263 runs and taking four wickets across the five matches. He finished with figures of 4/20 in nine overs. Because of their position in the ICC Men’s ODI Team Rankings, ireland have already secured their place in next year’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier.
“Obviously, it was a disappointing day for us,” Tucker said. Smith received the Player of the Match award in the final ODI for his impressive bowling performance. Join conversation Share your thoughts in the comments Be respectful · TOI community guidelines Ireland captain Lorcan Tucker admitted that his team failed to perform at the required level in the series decider. “We have learned a lot, but I think we’ve a lot to reflect on going forward.
“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. “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.
Namibia, meanwhile, are likely to have to qualify through the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier Play-off to secure their place in the tournament. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.