The match in the Namibian capital is a historic occasion, marking the first time the two nations will go head-to-head in Namibia. South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe will co-host the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, and the stadium in Windhoek has been upgraded ahead of the global showpiece. 

Saturday’s clash will also be the first international game played at the venue since the renovations – a major milestone for Namibian cricket.

Reeza Hendriks and Quinton de Kock. Photo: Cricinfo

At the same time, it’s also a significant moment for South African cricket, with De Kock returning to the international stage. The star wicketkeeper-batter last played for the Proteas in their seven-run defeat to India in the final of the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup in Barbados.

Having been away from international cricket for over a year, De Kock’s return is eagerly anticipated – especially with a white-ball tour to Pakistan and, of course, the World Cup on home soil coming up.

Ahead of the clash between the Eagles and the Proteas, De Kock said their focus remains firmly on the immediate task at hand.

“To be fair, I don’t think many of us have really thought that far ahead. We’re just focusing on what’s coming tomorrow. Obviously, a couple of guys are already on their way to Pakistan. 

“I know it’s a tough tour – they play really good cricket in their own conditions. But for now, we’re just mentally here at the moment.”

Play in the historic T20 International at the newly revamped Namibia Cricket Ground is scheduled to start at 14:00 on Saturday.

Proteas T20I squad vs Namibia:

Donovan Ferreira (captain), Ottniel Baartman, Nandré Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Rubin Hermann, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dré Pretorius, Andile Simelane, Jason Smith, Lizaad Williams

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek  dg