New Delhi, February 9: Namibia is set to compete in Group A of the T20 World Cup 2026, alongside cricketing giants India, Pakistan, the USA, and the Netherlands. The team has emerged as a promising contender, showcasing consistent performances in recent times.
In an exclusive interview, Namibia’s left-arm fast bowler, Ruben Trumpelmann, shared insights on the team’s strategies and the excitement of participating in the World Cup. He expressed that playing in India will be a thrilling experience.
“We qualified for the World Cup in Zimbabwe just before August. We finished second there, and our preparations began immediately after. We played a T20 match at home against South Africa to inaugurate our new stadium and participated in several World League games. In early January, we kicked off a training camp in Cape Town, followed by a trip to Dubai where we played three matches—two against Afghanistan and one against Italy. I believe our preparations have been excellent,” Trumpelmann stated.
Commenting on the addition of Gary Kirsten to the coaching staff, Trumpelmann noted, “He brings a wealth of experience, especially in India. Despite coaching the national team, he remains a calm person. Learning from him is easy, and he enjoys helping others.”
Namibia’s first warm-up match against Scotland saw a high-scoring game. As a bowler, Trumpelmann emphasized the need for enthusiasm and skill. “Conditions in Nepal were different, more spin-friendly. I don’t expect much turn or pace on Indian pitches for the World Cup. As a bowling unit, we need to sharpen our skill set,” he explained.
“Our strategy is to keep things simple. I believe bowlers will take teams far in this tournament. The team with the best bowling attack will likely win. Batsmen will have the freedom to express themselves, so bowlers must be ready to execute their skills,” he added.
Trumpelmann highlighted the significance of playing in four consecutive World Cups for a small nation like Namibia. “A major part of our success comes from our close-knit team. Most of us have been together since the 2021 World Cup campaigns. The time we spend together, training, and enjoying daily life strengthens our bond. At the end of the day, we step onto the field as friends.”
Leading the bowling attack is a privilege for Trumpelmann, who enjoys the pressure of taking the new ball and bowling in death overs. “Given our limited resources, we must make the best use of what we have. As a bowling unit and team, we adapt to conditions. I focus on taking wickets and delivering well in challenging overs,” he said.
Reflecting on their victory over South Africa in T20, he remarked, “A significant part of our group gained valuable experience. We aim to defeat them again in the next World Cup. Such experiences are crucial when facing full-member nations like South Africa.”
While they have yet to qualify for the Super 8, Trumpelmann remains optimistic. “As we look towards the Super 12, the format has changed a bit. However, I believe we are a strong T20 team. The team is confident, and we will make a significant impact. We need to integrate more young players into the squad.”
Excitement is palpable as Trumpelmann anticipates the World Cup, hoping for an upset. “We’ve been preparing diligently over the past few months. We recently defeated Afghanistan comfortably in a warm-up match. We have everything we need. To advance to the Super 8, we must keep everything together and play our best game.”
As a senior player, Trumpelmann feels a sense of responsibility, especially alongside JJ, a talented all-rounder who thrives under pressure. “Max, at just 17, is an exciting talent. This is his first World Cup, and he hasn’t played many international matches. Experienced players like Chicago and young talent Jack Brusell are also vital for the team,” he noted.
On coaching, Trumpelmann praised Pierre’s success and the positive impact of Craig, a former Namibian player. “Craig knows the players well and has brought a fresh perspective. He allows players to showcase their talents, creating a real change within the camp. We enjoy playing under Craig’s guidance. Our backroom staff, including Justin Kemp, Gary, Erfurt Loebcher, and Sean Novak, are truly exceptional and passionate about cricket and Namibia.”
Regarding the match against India, Trumpelmann said, “Playing against India is always special. They are a fantastic team, and it’s the best way to test your skills as a player. Playing in front of 75,000 fans in India will be thrilling. The experience of playing in the World Cup here will be fascinating.”