India’s World Cup campaign came to an end with a 9-wicket victory over Namibia. It was a campaign that had so much potential before the start, especially after the emphatic victories in the warm-up games. Kohli’s side without their fate in their own hands, were always on the verge of getting knocked out after a historical defeat against Pakistan, followed by another shocking loss to New Zealand. To stay in the hunt, they produced two dominating wins against Afghanistan and Scotland, but relying on other results was always going to be fatal, and their latest ICC nemesis – the BlackCaps – hit the last nail in the coffin.
How the game played out
The bowlers, headed by Ashwin, Jadeja, and Bumrah, limited Namibia to 132 runs. Then, one by one, Rohit and Rahul sewed boundaries to ensure there were no bumps. Namibia can be proud of the performances they’ve put up throughout the World Cup, not just in this game. They’ve performed admirably and will undoubtedly be a better team in next year’s World Cup as a result of this experience.
Indian openers made it look easy
On a good batting surface, 132 was far too low, and the openers once again provided a rousing start, with Rohit, in particular, looking aggressive from ball one. KL was content to play the anchor role until he showed up, dishing out some classy strokes of his own. Both Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul took advantage of an inexperienced Namibia bowling lineup as they both hit their half-centuries. When Rohit fell after a fine fifty, KL kicked on and, along with Surya, ensured that the win was secured with about five overs to spare.
The vintage duo of Ashwin and Jadeja
Namibia got off to a good start, but that was cut short when an Indian spin duo was introduced in the middle overs. Jadeja and Ashwin then took three wickets each in the middle overs, while Rahul Chahar went for 30 in his only match of the tournament. Craig Williams was stumped, Stephan Baard LBW and JJ Smith caught at covers off Jadeja’s bowling. To claim his three victims, Ashwin used the change in pace and variations.
So, while Virat Kohli could not bat in his final T20I as captain, he leaves on a high note, and so does head coach Ravi Shastri, whose contract expired after the game. With the appointment of Rahul Dravid and the impending appointment of a new captain, India’s T20I fortunes will be interesting to watch over the next 12 months.