Cricket

Scotland Triumphs Over Namibia in T20 Cricket World Cup Group B ClashIn a thrilling encounter at the T20 Cricket World Cup in Barbados, Scotland emerged victorious over Namibia by five wickets, securing their first win of the tournament. Captain Richie Berrington led the charge with an unbeaten 47, guiding his team to a hard-fought victory.Namibia, who had opted to bat first, faced early setbacks, losing two wickets for just 19 runs. However, Gerhard Erasmus, the Namibian captain, steadied the innings with a top-score of 52 off 31 balls. His knock, which included five fours and two sixes, helped Namibia recover to a competitive total of 155 for nine.Scotland's chase got off to a solid start, but they lost four wickets in quick succession, leaving them in a precarious position at 73 for four. Berrington and Michael Leask then combined for a crucial 74-run partnership, rescuing Scotland from the brink of defeat. Berrington's 47 off 36 balls, featuring two fours and three sixes, proved to be the match-winning contribution. Leask also played a vital role, smashing 35 off 17 balls, including four sixes.Namibia's bowlers, led by Erasmus, who took two for 29, fought valiantly, but they were unable to contain Scotland's relentless pursuit. Seam bowlers Brad Wheal and Brad Currie played a pivotal role in restricting Namibia's total, taking three and two wickets respectively.Scotland's victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. After being thwarted by the weather in their opening fixture, they showed great character to bounce back and secure a crucial win. Namibia, despite their valiant effort, will be disappointed to have let the game slip away in the final overs.

Namibia has named a 16-member squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, with Gerhard Erasmus leading the charge. However, the team will be without Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, who is currently facing disciplinary proceedings.Loftie-Eaton, who holds the record for the fastest T20I century, was sent back from Namibia's African Games squad in March due to disciplinary issues. Cricket Namibia has declined to comment on the matter until it is resolved.Another notable omission from the squad is batter Pikky Ya France. The squad includes experienced players such as David Wiese, Ruben Trumpelmann, and JJ Smit.Namibia has opted for a 16-member squad to accommodate the need for a larger player base during the four warm-up fixtures in the West Indies before the tournament.Namibia Squad for 2024 T20 World Cup:* Gerhard Erasmus (c)* Zane Green* Michael Van Lingen* Dylan Leicher* Ruben Trumpelmann* Jack Brassell* Ben Shikongo* Tangeni Lungameni* Niko Davin* JJ Smit* Jan Frylinck* JP Kotze* David Wiese* Bernard Scholtz* Malan Kruger* PD Blignaut

Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi, Namibia's Gerhard Erasmus, and UAE's Muhammad Waseem have been nominated for the ICC Men's Player of the Month award for April 2024.Afridi's nomination stems from his exceptional bowling performances in Pakistan's drawn T20I series against New Zealand. He was instrumental in both of Pakistan's victories, taking 3-13 in the second T20I and 4-30 in the fifth and final match. His eight wickets in the series at an average of 10.00 earned him the Player of the Series award.Erasmus played a pivotal role in Namibia's series victory in Oman. He amassed 145 runs and picked up eight wickets, including two Player of the Match performances. In the second match, he scored a controlled half-century, while in the decider, he blasted an eye-catching 64 not out in 29 balls and took two wickets to seal the series win.Waseem, UAE's opening batter, impressed in his side's run to ACC Premier Cup triumph. He scored 269 runs at an average of 44.83, including a century in the final against Oman. His consistent performances throughout the tournament have earned him a nomination for the ICC Men's Player of the Month award.The winner of the award will be announced on May 10, 2024.