Cricket Namibia is proud to celebrate a historic milestone for Namibian cricket after the FNB Eagles defeated Ireland by 31 runs in the second One-Day International (ODI) at the FNB Namibia Cricket Ground on Saturday, 24 October 2026.
The victory marks Namibia’s first-ever ODI win against an ICC Full Member nation, a landmark achievement for the country and a proud moment for the Namibian cricket community. The result demonstrates the continued growth of the national team and the competitiveness of Namibia as an Associate Member nation on the international stage.
After Ireland won the opening ODI by 55 runs, the FNB Eagles responded emphatically, producing an outstanding all-round performance to level the five-match series and make history in front of home supporters.
Erasmus leads a commanding batting performance
The FNB Eagles posted 321/6 in 50 overs, powered by a magnificent unbeaten 156 not out off 125 balls from captain Gerhard Erasmus.
Erasmus struck 14 fours and four sixes, recording a new ODI career-best score and anchoring Namibia’s innings with a superb display of composure and determination.
He received valuable support from Jan Frylinck, who scored an impressive 76 off 90 deliveries, including six fours and two sixes. Their contributions provided the foundation for Namibia’s formidable total.
Alexander Volschenk added further momentum with a brisk 30 off just 20 balls, striking three fours and one six at a scoring rate of 150.
The Eagles’ ability to combine a substantial innings from their captain with important contributions from the supporting batters proved crucial in setting Ireland a challenging target of 322 runs.
Brassell leads disciplined bowling attack
Ireland made a determined effort in their chase, with captain Paul Stirling scoring 77 off 71 balls. Curtis Campher contributed 45 off 45 deliveries, while George Dockrell added 48 off 48 balls to keep Ireland in contention.
However, the FNB Eagles maintained their composure and continued to take important wickets at key moments.
Fast bowler Jack Brassell delivered a match-defining performance, claiming 4/52 in his 10 overs. His four wickets included the dismissals of Stirling, Lorcan, Campher and Dockrell, disrupting Ireland’s middle order and shifting the momentum in Namibia’s favour.
Gerhard Erasmus complemented his outstanding batting effort with 2/13 in 3.3 overs, applying pressure with the ball and helping bring Ireland’s innings to a close.
Ireland were eventually bowled out for 290 in 47.3 overs, giving Namibia a memorable 31-run victory.
A milestone for Namibian cricket
For Cricket Namibia, this victory represents more than a result on the scoreboard. It is a significant achievement for the national team and a reflection of the dedication, preparation and commitment invested in developing cricket in Namibia.
Defeating an ICC Full Member nation in ODI cricket is an important milestone for an Associate Member country. The FNB Eagles have demonstrated that Namibia can compete with established international teams and deliver performances capable of making history.
The victory also provided a special moment for Namibian supporters, who continue to play an important role in backing the national team on home soil.
With the ODI series now level at one win apiece, the FNB Eagles will look to carry this momentum into the third ODI against Ireland on Tuesday, 27 October 2026, at HP Oval in Windhoek.
Cricket Namibia congratulates the FNB Eagles on this historic achievement and encourages Namibians to continue supporting the team as the series progresses.