Ireland fell 2-1 behind in their five-match one-day international series against Namibia as they lost the third meeting between the sides by 63 runs in Windhoek on Tuesday. Curtis Campher’s century proved insufficient for the tourists, who were all out for 253 in the 45th over as they attempted to chase down their opponent’s total of 316-7. Ireland skipper Paul Stirling was unable to bat after injuring his finger in the field during the home side’s innings.
Namibia Innings and Jan Frylinck Century
Jan Frylinck shone for Namibia as he top-scored with 126 to lay the platform for the victory. After winning the toss and opting to bat first, opener Louren Steenkamp’s departure for 13 left Namibia 33-1. When Malan Kruger scored 42 before losing his wicket, the hosts sat 81-2 but a third-wicket partnership of 101 between Frylinck and captain Gerhard Erasmus, who made 54, got their side back on track to achieve their impressive total.
Alex Volschenk chipped in with 36 for the hosts. Meanwhile, Curtis Campher and Andy McBrine were the pick of the Ireland bowlers with two wickets apiece, finishing with figures of 2-68 and 2-53 respectively.
Ireland Chase and Series Outlook
In response, Ireland struggled at 56-4 before Campher’s 106 off 86 balls put them in with a chance of securing what at one stage looked like an improbable victory. Ultimately, their reply fell short however as wickets continued to fall regularly and they were all out for 253 with 31 balls of their innings still remaining. Bernard Scholtz, Ruben Trumpelmann and Jack Brassell each took two wickets for Namibia, claiming 2-31, 2-37, and 2-72 respectively.
The sides will meet again on Friday and Sunday as Ireland continue their preparations for next year’s World Cup qualifiers.
