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Namibia will aim to end their three-match ODI series against South Africa on a high when the two sides meet in the third and final game at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek on September 13. The hosts have already conceded the series after losing the first two matches, including a heavy 157-run defeat in the second ODI.
Despite the disappointing results, Namibia have shown glimpses of their potential. Ruben Trumpelmann was outstanding with the ball in the opening ODI, while JJ Smit provided valuable runs down the order. The hosts also have plenty of experienced campaigners in their squad, including captain Gerhard Erasmus, Jan Frylinck and Bernard Scholtz.
Namibia made one notable change between the first and second ODIs, bringing in JC Balt for Alexander Busing-Volschenk. With the series already decided, the hosts could consider another alteration, but continuity is likely to be preferred as they look to finish strongly.
Here is Namibia’s predicted playing XI for the third ODI against South Africa:
Michael van Lingen is expected to continue at the top of the order. The experienced left-hander returned from international retirement earlier in 2026 and has been given an opportunity to establish himself in the ODI setup.
He will need to provide Namibia with a more positive start after the top order struggled against South Africa’s pace and spin attacks in the first two games.
Malan Kruger should retain his place as the other opener. He scored 34 from 60 balls in the first ODI and showed that he can occupy the crease for long periods.
However, Namibia will need him to convert starts into substantial scores in the final game.
Jan Frylinck is likely to slot in at No. 3. The experienced all-rounder has more than 100 international appearances across formats and remains an important member of Namibia’s white-ball setup.
His ability to contribute with both bat and ball gives Erasmus additional flexibility.
Louren Steenkamp should continue in the middle order. He has been part of Namibia’s combination throughout the series and offers a useful left-handed option.
Steenkamp will be expected to provide stability if Namibia lose early wickets while also accelerating once the innings enters its second half.
Captain Gerhard Erasmus remains the most important player in Namibia’s lineup. The all-rounder scored 21 in the first ODI and has also been used as a reliable spin option.
Erasmus will have a major role to play in both departments, particularly with Namibia looking to avoid a 3-0 series sweep.
Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton is expected to retain his place in the XI after coming into the side for the second ODI.
The left-handed batter can provide aggression in the middle overs and is also capable of contributing with the ball. Namibia will hope he can provide the finishing push that their batting order has lacked during the series.
Zane Green should continue as the wicketkeeper-batter. He has been Namibia’s designated wicketkeeper during the ODI series and adds another left-handed batting option.
Green made 11 in the first ODI and will be eager to make a greater contribution with the bat in the series finale.
JC Balt is likely to retain his place after replacing Alexander Busing-Volschenk for the second ODI. His inclusion gave Namibia an additional bowling option.
The final match could be another opportunity for Balt to demonstrate that he can become a regular part of Namibia’s ODI setup.
Ruben Trumpelmann is Namibia’s biggest threat with the new ball and should spearhead the attack once again.
The left-arm seamer claimed four wickets in the first ODI, including key South African wickets, and has shown that he can trouble the Proteas’ inexperienced batting lineup.
His ability to generate movement and attack the stumps will be crucial.
Waldo Smith is expected to continue as one of Namibia’s pace options. The young seamer has been given opportunities at international level and is part of Namibia’s next generation of fast bowlers.
The third ODI could provide another valuable learning experience against a strong South African batting unit.
Jack Brassell should complete the predicted XI. He has been part of both previous ODIs and provides Namibia with another seam-bowling option.
Brassell will need to improve his control after going wicketless in the opening game, but his ability to bowl useful spells makes him a likely starter again.
Michael van Lingen, Malan Kruger, Jan Frylinck, Louren Steenkamp, Gerhard Erasmus (C), Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Zane Green (WK), JC Balt, Ruben Trumpelmann, Waldo Smith, Jack Brassell
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