Cricket stars from yesteryear ready for action
Cricket
The Namibian cricket team for players over 50 is ready to compete against teams from South Africa and Zimbabwe in Windhoek.
The Over-50s cricket team of Namibia is gearing up for a competitive showdown against South Africa and Zimbabwe in the Over-50 Africa Cup 2024 series, scheduled to take place in Windhoek from 17 to 21 November.The coach of the team, Chris Freeman, is optimistic about his squad's performance despite the formidable competition. "We have a small pool of guys involved with the Over-50s and are playing against some of the best players in the world. It is a big occasion for the players. Many of them retired a long time ago, and with the home fans at the grounds, I want the players to show that they can compete," Freeman said.
He emphasised the unique contributions of each player and the team's capabilities in bowling, batting, and fielding, revealing that preparations for the tournament began seven months prior to his joining the team. "I started coaching the side six months ago. Most of the guys are based in Windhoek and train as a squad up to three times a week. We also play a game on weekends," he said.
Coach Freeman believes that hosting top-tier veterans' cricket in Namibia serves as excellent preparation for the International Masters Cricket (IMC) World Cup in Sri Lanka in 2025. He noted that the Over-50 Africa Cup 2024 series is a significant event for Cricket Namibia, with ex-international players from South Africa and Zimbabwe showcasing their skills. "It is a special platform for seasoned players, aged 50 and above, to remain involved in the game and continue playing competitive cricket," he said.
Freeman anticipates a high-scoring game, given his experience playing on the same pitches. He sees the series on home soil as a golden opportunity for young fans to witness the legends of the game in action and extended an invitation to cricket fans to support the Namibian Over-50s team. "Do not miss the chance to witness top-level cricket and cheer for our veteran cricketers. It is going to be incredible. We are playing at home, and the more support we have, the better the players are going to feel on the field," he urged.
Fans unable to attend can follow the action as it unfolds live on NTV, DStv (channel 285), GOtv (channel 25), or online at https://oneuptwo.com.
The Namibian Over-50s squad includes Dawie Hartzenberg (captain), Leon Fleming (vice-captain), Deon Gouws, Petrie Theron, Piers le Strange, Alex Horn, Lam Coetzee, Dian Coetzee, Louis Nortje, Dirkie Beukes, Ferdie Coetzee, Willem Genis, Willem Janse van Rensburg, Isedor Titus, Willie van Zyl (manager), and Chris Freeman (coach).