In the 2025 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final, the 11th match pits Namibia vs Malawi in a key Group A fixture.
Both teams are vying for supremacy in the African qualification path, and a strong performance here can shape their road ahead.
Namibia enters the game with stronger credentials in associate cricket, while Malawi looks to pull off an upset and make a statement.
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Namibia vs Malawi Details
Date, Time & Venue
- Date: 30 September 2025
- Time: 01:50 PM local time (Harare)
- Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
Harare Sports Club is a familiar ground for many African teams. The pitch often favors a balanced contest, with both pace and spin capable of extracting something, depending on conditions early (morning) versus late (evening) in the day.
Historical Context & Head-to-Head
Namibia and Malawi have rarely faced each other in official T20 internationals. Namibia is a well-established side in associate cricket, having featured in multiple global qualifiers and World Cups, while Malawi is still developing its presence on the international stage.
Namibia’s overall T20I record is much stronger, giving them a historical edge.
Match Build-Up & Recent Form
Namibia
Namibia enters this match with confidence. They have been consistent in Group A so far, and their net run rate is strong, reflecting convincing wins.
Their squad boasts experienced players such as Gerhard Erasmus, Jan Frylinck, Bernard Scholtz, and JJ Smit, all of whom can make a significant impact with bat or ball.
Malawi
Malawi has shown fighting spirit but needs consistency. They rely on smart strategies and a few key performers to keep them competitive.
Early wickets and partnerships in the batting order will be vital if they are to challenge Namibia.
Namibia vs Malawi: Probable XI for Both Sides
Namibia (probable 11):
- Malan Kruger
- Louren Steenkamp
- Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton
- Gerhard Erasmus (c)
- JJ Smit
- Jan Frylinck
- Zane Green (wk)
- Jan-Izak de Villiers
- Bernard Scholtz
- Ruben Trumpelmann
- Ben Shikongo
Malawi (probable 11):
- Gift Kansonkho
- Salim Nihute (wk)
- Moazzam Baig
- Chisomo Chete
- Mike Choamba
- Suhail Vayani
- Daniel Jakiel
- Kelvin Thuchila
- Chisomo Tchale
- Donnex Kansonkho
- Muhammad Kazim Somani
Namibia vs Malawi: Match Analysis & Key Battles
- Toss factor: Winning the toss could prove important. On Harare pitches, batting first allows setting a target, while chasing can also be favorable if dew plays a role in the evening.
- Namibia’s strength: Deep batting lineup and experienced bowlers. Their balance between all-rounders and specialist bowlers gives them versatility.
- Malawi’s chance: They must pick up early wickets and prevent Namibia from accelerating in the middle overs. Their bowlers need to execute tight lines, especially at the death.
- Key contests: Erasmus vs Malawi’s spinners, Namibia’s pacers against Malawi’s top order.
Namibia vs Malawi: Prediction
Namibia is the firm favorite due to their superior experience, depth, and recent form. If they bat first, a total in excess of 160 could be match-winning. If chasing, they have the firepower to track down targets steadily.
Prediction: Namibia to win by 25–35 runs or 5–6 wickets.
FAQ’s
What is the importance of this match?
It is a Group A match in the Africa Regional Final of the T20 World Cup qualifier, and the result affects qualification standings.
Has Malawi ever defeated Namibia in T20Is?
There are no recorded wins for Malawi against Namibia in official T20 internationals.
Who are Namibia’s key players?
Gerhard Erasmus, JJ Smit, Jan Frylinck, and Bernard Scholtz are the main names to watch.
What does Malawi need to do to win?
They must bowl tightly in the power play, take early wickets, and rely on strong batting partnerships to chase or set a target.
Does the Harare pitch favor batting or bowling?
The pitch generally offers balance. Early on, seamers get some help, but as the game progresses, spinners can be effective. Dew in the evening may favor the chasing side.