Proteas eyeing revenge against Namibia in T20I tri-series

South Africa’s Proteas could erase an upset from 2025 when they face Namibia in a tri-series including Zimbabwe.

Proteas eyeing revenge against Namibia in T20I tri-series

The Proteas’ T20I tri-series clash on Friday against Namibia will be a chance for the South African side to get even.

The Proteas lost by four wickets in a historic first clash with their national neighbours in October 2025.

The two sides will meet again on 28 August in Windhoek as part of a five-match tri-series also including Zimbabwe.

Windhoek clash a chance for Proteas’ revenge

South Africa return to international action against Namibia on Friday in what should be a highly-charged rematch.

The talking point would be the hosts having a perfect record against the Proteas.

With some veterans being rested, a young South African squad will need to set the record straight with the home crowd against them.

Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma, Kagiso Rabada, and Keshav Maharaj are among the big names missing from the squad.

Bjorn Fortuin has been named captain – he was also part of the team beaten by Namibia almost a year ago.

Two uncapped players also made the cut: Duan Jansen (Marco Jansen’s brother) and Eathan Bosch (Corbin Bosch’s brother).

According to Cricket South Africa, coach Shukri Conrad said, “It is always exciting to play against our neighbouring countries, and the first-ever ODI series between South Africa and Namibia adds further significance, especially as we build towards next year’s World Cup.”

Format of T20I tri-series and potential implications

The T20 tri-series will see South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe play each other twice.

The top two teams then meet in the final on 6 September.

South Africa will then remain in Windhoek for a first-ever ODI series against Namibia from 9 to 13 September.

These games will be crucial for the Proteas who are aiming to build depth ahead of Australia’s tour in September and October.

South Africa’s efforts in Namibia could also carry a significance beyond player preparation.

Forbes Africa quoted coach Conrad on the potential of an Africa Cup competition: “I believe we have a duty, as the ‘big brother’, to support and contribute to the growth of cricket across the African continent. I think starting with our closest neighbours, Zimbabwe and Namibia, is a great way to do that.”

Key dates for Proteas’ upcoming Namibia tour

28 August: South Africa vs Namibia

29 August: South Africa v Zimbabwe

1 September: South Africa vs Zimbabwe

4 September: South Africa vs Namibia

9 to 13 September: South Africa v Namibia (three-match ODI series)