We want to be competitive against teams like India and Pakistan, says Namibia head coach Pierre de Bruyn

It won’t be wrong to say that Namibia have been an absolute revelation in the round 1 of the ongoing T20 World Cup. On their debut in the showpiece event, the team managed to beat a few experienced teams like Netherlands and Ireland and cruised to the Super 12 stage. The catalyst of both victories was former South Africa all-rounder David Wiese, who played two vital knocks and gave Namibia a reason to cherish and celebrate.

Naturally, Namibia head coach Pierre de Bruyn is thrilled by the achievement of his team but has also promised that his side will show the same competitive spirit against top teams like India, Pakistan, and New Zealand in the Super 12 stage.

“Yeah, look, it’s time for us to reflect and enjoy this moment, be we certainly didn’t come here just to go and lie down now,” Bruyn said, according to News 18. Bruyn also said the team is looking forward to doing well against the top teams in Group B during the Super 12 stage, and hope to keep the same momentum.  He also said it’s a challenge to face India and Pakistan, but said his side will compete.

“Facing India, Pakistan, New Zealand, those types of teams is going to be a great experience for these players, but you know, we want to be competitive in whatever we do, with the ball, bat, in the field, the way we present ourselves, the way- we’re going to compete, so we’re looking forward to that.”

We have made history by advancing to the Super 12: Pierre De Bruyn

With a population of just 25 lakhs, Namibia have stunned the onlookers of the game by displaying grit and determination in the Qualifiers. The next challenge awaits for the team during the Super 12 stage as the team is placed in Group B. Bruyn said the team will enjoy this success and also set goals for the remaining games against top teams.

“We’ve made history now, advancing to the Super 12. First-time ever we’re going to play against these guys in a T20 World Cup. We are going to enjoy the next 24 hours or so and then we’re going to sit down as a group again, and we‘re going to put some goals on the table,” added de Bruyn.