NAM vs ZIM: Namibia won its first full-member series by bowling Zimbabwe out for 95 runs in the decisive fifth T20I in Bulawayo to win the series 3-2. Craig William’s 39-ball 48 would prove the difference between the two sides on a day when ball dominated bat, with no other bat on either side passing 30 in the spin-dominated series finale.
Williams and Michael van Lingen’s quickfire opening partnership, as well as Ruben Trumpelmann’s late cameo in the first innings, helped the tourists post an underwhelming but ultimately more-than-sufficient 127-8 after being put in to bat, before Namibia skipper Gerhard Erasmus led an impressive all-round Namibia bowling display, taking 2-9 in his three overs as his side strangled Zimbabwe’s chase.
A 32-run victory while defending only 127 runs would be notable in any context, but for Namibia to win their first-ever full-status bilateral series against their neighbours to the east is yet another historic milestone in their remarkable recent rise. For the hosts, there will be plenty to think about ahead of their upcoming series against Afghanistan and crucial home T20 WC Qualifier, as well as difficult questions to answer in the short term. In the long run, Zimbabwe may come to appreciate another significant regional competitor, and this series may be remembered as the start of a welcome new rivalry.
This series had some positives for Zimbabwe as their young batsman Wesley Medhevere found the rhythm again with the bat.
Zimbabwe will now play white-ball series against Zimbabwe. The series is scheduled to start on 5th June with the ODI leg starting first. The T20 series will start on 11th June. Zimbabwe will have to perform better if they want to win the white ball series against Afghanistan which has lots of powerhouse players in their squad.
NAM vs ZIM Brief Scores: Namibia 127 for 8 (Williams 48, Madhevere 2-15, Jongwe 2-16) beat Zimbabwe 95 all out (Munyonga 28, Erasmus 2-9, Frylinck 2-25) by 32 runs
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