Namibia’s left-arm spinner Bernard Scholtz is looking forward to the challenge of facing Australia in Match 24 of the 2024 T20 World Cup in Antigua on June 11 (Tuesday). 

Namibia did play a warm-up game against Australia and were hammered comprehensively, with the latter chasing down the 120-run target in just 10 overs.

“It was good just to see what you can expect from them and what level we need to be on. Obviously, it didn’t go that well, but for a lot of guys this was their first outing against such a big team, so I think a lot of lessons learnt and hopefully coming ready for tomorrow,” said Scholtz.

Namibia will be up against some high-quality players. Australia have one of the most complete bowling units in the World Cup, while their batters are as aggressive as they come. 

“That’s where you want to beat yourself against the best nations and not just to compete against them. They come hard, so it’ll be a great challenge for us with both seam and spin. I’m looking forward to the challenge and you never know on the day.”

Talking about the tournament format, Scholtz said: “I think it’s wonderful – like we’ve seen the smaller nations, the associate nations really competing well, with quite a few upsets already in the tournament – so hopefully a few more to come and I think it’s wonderful that ICC made it a 20-team tournament.”

Namibia won their opening clash against Oman in the Super Over but were beaten by Scotland in their last encounter. “I think we’re still hurting after that one – the Scotland game. 

“The first two games were really targeted, obviously trying to win those first two games with us knowing that the last two will be a bit more difficult. Obviously, that second game didn’t go our way, but yeah hopefully we can put up a good show in the last two games.”

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