Namibia took a 2-1 lead in their five-match ODI series against Ireland after successfully defending a total of over 300 for the second time. Following their 321/6 performance in the previous game, Namibia posted 316/7 on Tuesday, October 27, in Windhoek. Ireland struggled in their response, ultimately falling 63 runs short as they were bowled out for 253 in 44.5 overs. The roles reversed, on Tuesday (October 27).
The hosts’ innings was anchored by Jan Frylinck, who scored a commanding 126 before departing in the penultimate over. He was well-supported by captain Gerhard Erasmus, who struck a brisk 54 off 51 balls. Alexander Volschenk added essential late-innings momentum with a 26-ball 36, ensuring the team crossed the 300-run threshold. Erasmus scored a brisk 51-ball 54 but Frylinck carried on further to register an excellent ton. But it was Gerhard Erasmus and Jan Frylinck who did the bulk of the scoring again, malan Kruger gave Namibia a decent start. Alexander Volschenk chipped in with a crucial 26-ball 36 to provide firepower at the death for Namibia.
Ireland’s pursuit began poorly, losing their top four wickets within the first 13 overs. Bernard Scholtz claimed a vital early breakthrough by removing Cade Carmichael for a duck, while Andrew Balbirnie, Lorcan Tucker, and Harry Tector failed to establish themselves. These early setbacks left the visitors in a precarious position. Chasing 317, Ireland made a disastrous start as Bernard Scholtz removed Cade Carmichael for a duck. The key trio of Andrew Balbirnie, Lorcan Tucker and Harry Tector failed to fire as well as Ireland lost their top 4 inside 13 overs.
Curtis Campher led a spirited fightback for the tourists, anchoring the middle order with a fighting century. After sharing a 61-run partnership for the fifth wicket, he combined for an 86-run stand that briefly pressured the Namibian bowling attack. Although the home side broke the partnership with George Dockrell’s wicket, Campher continued his assault until he was dismissed with 71 runs still required for victory, leading to a collapse of the tail. The tourists fell short by 63 runs, despite a fighting century from Curtis Campher, having come much closer to the target last time.
Brief scores: Namibia 316/7 in 50 overs (Jan Frylinck 126, Gerhard Erasmus 56) defeated Ireland 253 in 44.5 overs (Curtis Campher 106; Bernard Scholtz 2-31) by 63 runs.
