Africa-Press – Namibia. After an impressive run last year on international cricket pitches, Cricket Namibia chief Johan Muller is looking forward to another two and half years of professional cricket.
Without a doubt, Cricket Namibia (CN) was flying high last year after the senior men’s cricket side, the Eagles, made history by reaching the ICC T20 World Cup Super-12 stage at their first attempt.
The Eagles managed to beat powerhouse Netherlands and Ireland to cruise to the Super-12 category of the World Cup, where they collected one victory over Scotland, and saw them automatically book a spot for this October’s ICC T20 World Cup in Australia.
Reflecting on the achievements, Muller said 2021 was a great year for cricket in Namibia.
“The year 2021 was an exceptional year for our senior national teams, both the Capricorn Eagles women’s team and the national men’s team. The Capricorn Eagles won nine of their 11 matches and reached two final stages of two African tournaments which saw them climbing up the rankings list,” he told New Era Sport.
Prior to the T20 World Cup in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), the men performed well against Uganda, South Africa Emerging side, Titans and against a strong Zimbabwe A side.
“Obviously, the magnificent T20 World Cup itself saw them cause a few upsets,” he said.
Muller added that moving forward, they will focus on preparations for the World Cup in Australia, while also putting more effort in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 competition also lined up for this year.
“We also have quite an important year in 50 overs competitions, where our team has to secure a place in the Cricket World Cup League 2 competition by making sure we finish in the top five of the seven countries currently there.”
“That will secure another two and half years of professional cricket at that level, so it’s a big year for us in terms of determining our future and also having another go at the World Cup in Australia which will be another highlight,” he added.
The Cricket World Cup League is a qualifier for the 2023 ICC World Cup (50 overs) scheduled to be played in India.
The series which was being played in Namibia late November was cancelled after UAE banned all flights from southern Africa and the Emirates, Omani players had to rush home.
Only two of the scheduled eight matches had been played.
Muller told outlookIndia late last year, the remaining matches will be rescheduled as there is still time to play before the deadline in March 2023.
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