JJ Smit’s brilliant all-round performance powered Namibia to a convincing win over Tanzania, booking their place in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka.
The victory in the first semi-final of the Africa Regional Qualifiers secured Namibia’s fourth consecutive World Cup appearance, following their entries in 2021, 2022, and 2024.
Match Summary
Batting first, Namibia posted 174-6 in 20 overs despite a shaky start at 41-4 in 4.4 overs. Skipper Gerhard Erasmus (55 off 41, 6 fours) and JJ Smit (unbeaten 61 off 43, 4 sixes, 1 four) rescued the innings with a crucial 88-run fifth-wicket partnership. For Tanzania, Ally Kimote and Khalidy Juma claimed two wickets each.
In reply, Tanzania could only manage 111-8, struggling against Namibia’s disciplined bowling. Abhik Patwa top-scored with 31 off 31 balls, but the chase never gained momentum.
JJ Smit followed up his batting heroics with the ball, taking 3 wickets, while Ben Shikongo also impressed with 3 wickets in his four-over spell, sealing a 63-run win for Namibia.
What’s Next
Kenya and Zimbabwe will clash in the second semi-final to determine the second qualifier from Africa, while South Africa have already qualified directly for the 2026 World Cup.
