Namibia booked their place in a fourth successive T20 World Cup with a commanding 63-run victory over Tanzania in the African qualifier at Harare Sports Club on Thursday. All-rounder JJ Smit was the standout performer, scoring an unbeaten 61 and taking three vital wickets to steer his side to victory.
Sent in to bat, Namibia recovered from a shaky start of 41 for four to post a competitive 174/6 in their 20 overs. Smit shared an 88-run partnership with captain Gerhard Erasmus for the fifth wicket, consolidating the innings. Smit struck four sixes and a four in his 43-ball knock, while Erasmus contributed 55 off 44 deliveries, including six boundaries.
Chasing 175, Tanzania struggled to maintain momentum. Opener Abhik Patwa scored 31 off 31 balls, featuring a six and three fours, but the rest of the batting line-up faltered. Tanzania were eventually restricted to 111/8, falling well short of the target.
Ben Shikongo also played a key role with the ball, claiming three wickets to complete a comprehensive victory for Namibia. With this win, Namibia became the 16th team to qualify for the T20 World Cup, scheduled from 7 February to 8 March 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The second African qualifying spot will be decided later on Thursday, when hosts Zimbabwe face Kenya.
