WINDHOEK, Namibia – Ireland may have lost the series, but the experience will help prepare the squad for the World Cup Qualifier starting in February, says captain Lorcan Tucker following today’s 5th ODI against Namibia at the National Cricket Ground.
Tucker said:
“Obviously, it was a disappointing day for us – we came here today excited about the opportunities with the series on the line, but I don’t think we quite rocked up from a skills perspective.
“We have learned a lot, but I think we’ve a lot to reflect on going forward.”
The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2027 will be hosted by South Africa and Namibia from 26 February to 21 March next year, and while the loss will hurt the players, the experience for many young members of the team in these conditions should hold them in good stead come the tournament.
Tucker was asked about specific areas of learning:
“I think top-order batting, and bowling through the middle period of the innings. I think Namibia gave us a good lesson in terms of how to do those things successfully. I think we brought the required intensity, but those skills need to sharpen up a little bit.
“Credit to Namibia, they played diligent cricket and did that for longer periods of time than us – that’s why they won the series today.”
After winning the toss, Ireland stumbled early and never looked confident during their innings today, Jordan Neill’s late 33 off 25 balls likely saved a few blushes, as the visitors were bundled out for 129 in 33.1 overs. The killer blow was JJ Smit bowling the 23rd over. With Ireland on 84-3, Smit claimed three wickets in four balls, the visitors slumping to 84-6 after Smit’s over – and they never recovered. The tail tried to hold on, but in the end they could only hold out for another 10 overs and Ireland was out for 129.
The Namibian run chase was steady – and despite losing five wickets, the home side cruised to victory within 22 overs.
MATCH SUMMARY
Namibia Men v Ireland Men, 5th ODI, Windhoek, 1 November 2026
Ireland 129 (33.1 overs; J Neill 33; JJ Smit 4-20)
Namibia 131-5 (21.2 overs; L Steenkamp 46; M Humphreys 2-48)
Namibia Men won by 5 wickets
