Namibia and Zimbabwe booked their tickets to the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after winning their semi-final clashes in the African qualifiers on Thursday. Both teams will now face each other in the final, but their qualification for next year’s showpiece event in India and Sri Lanka is already confirmed.
Namibia too strong for Tanzania
Namibia overcame early trouble against Tanzania to post a commanding 174-6. Skipper Gerhard Erasmus anchored the innings with 55 off 41 balls, while JJ Smit’s unbeaten 61 provided the late flourish. The Eagles’ bowlers then took charge, with Smit (3-16) and Ben Shikongo (3-21) restricting Tanzania to 111-8, sealing a 63-run victory.
Zimbabwe cruise past Kenya
Hosts Zimbabwe produced a convincing seven-wicket win against Kenya in Harare. After Kenya posted 122-6, powered by Rakep Patel’s fighting 65, Zimbabwe’s Brian Bennett led the chase with a blistering 51 off 25 balls. The Chevrons crossed the finish line with five overs to spare, securing their first T20 World Cup appearance since 2022.
Road ahead
With the qualifiers done, Namibia and Zimbabwe will meet in Saturday’s final to decide the African champion. Both sides will now prepare for the global stage, where 20 nations will contest the 2026 T20 World Cup from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka.
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