Namibia successfully defended 163 runs in the opening game of the T20I tri-series against South Africa, beating them for the second time in 10 months in the shortest format.
Namibia beat South Africa in the tri-series opener by 18 runs
After losing the toss, Namibia started well, with openers Louren Steenkamp and Jan Frylinck adding 84 runs in 9.4 overs. South Africa skipper Bjorn Fortuin dismissed the former, but Frylinck carried on, scoring 60 off 38 balls, before being dismissed.
His dismissal slowed down Namibia’s run-scoring. After being 116-2 after 13 overs, they managed 47 runs in the next seven, losing seven wickets in the process to finish 163-9.
South Africa’s run chase didn’t begin well as both their openers were back in the hut inside the first four overs of the innings. Dewald Brevis, batting at No.3, held the innings from one end, making 75 in 50, but it was not enough in the end, as Namibia restricted the opponents to 145-9, winning by 18 runs.
It was their second win over the side in as many T20Is, with Namibia also registering a four-wicket win last year. In that instance, South Africa had posted 134-8 at Windhoek, also the venue of the latest clash, which Namibia had chased down on the last ball.
However, South Africa's defeat could not be watched by fans back home due to telecast issues.
BROADCAST STATEMENT: NAMIBIA vs SOUTH AFRICA pic.twitter.com/BzE4pUgK2X
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) August 28, 2026
Why was NAM vs SA not visible in South Africa?
According to Cricket South Africa, the broadcast of the game had to be halted midway due to poor quality of the coverage. The game was being telecast on SuperSport, a popular television channel that broadcasts live sports in Sub-Saharan Africa.
In a statement, they said: “The broadcast of today’s T20I match between Namibia and South Africa on SuperSport had to be sadly discontinued due to poor incoming quality from the venue. We apologise to all fans for the inconvenience and disappointment caused, and thank our loyal supporters for their patience, understanding and continued support.”
However, fans claimed that the game could be viewed on ICC.tv.
The tri-series also involves Zimbabwe, with South Africa taking them on later today (August 29).
Follow Wisden for all cricket updates, including live scores, match stats, quizzes and more. Stay up to date with the latest cricket news, player updates, team standings, match highlights, video analysis and live match odds.
