![Namibia president contradicts captain to thank Jay Shah [Source: @srhfansofficial, @JayShah/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1770889077306_NamibiapresidentthanksJayShahforSupport.jpg?type=hq)
Namibia president contradicts captain to thank Jay Shah [Source: @srhfansofficial, @JayShah/X.com]
Namibia Cricket has moved subtly to calm tensions after captain Gerhard Erasmus questioned the ICC over training arrangements ahead of their T20 World Cup 2026 clash against India.
Soon after, Namibia Cricket President Dr. Rudie van Vuuren stepped in with a balanced statement, praising ICC leadership and stressing long-term support for associate nations.
Namibia president praises ICC and Jay Shah for support
Dr. Rudie van Vuuren, Namibia Cricket President, made it clear that his team values the ICC’s role in developing associate cricket. He said the governing body has adopted a stronger policy of empowering smaller nations.
He also praised ICC chairman Jay Shah for bringing positive change. Van Vuuren revealed that Shah recently visited Windhoek and inspected Namibia’s stadium facilities.
According to him, ICC backing has helped transform their ground into a high-performance venue. Rudie stressed that such support helps close the gap between Full Members and Associate nations.
"I think the ICC had adopted a policy of empowering associate nations. Mr Jay Shah [ICC President] has really brought some change there. And he was in Windhoke now, visiting Namibia, and visiting out stadiums. And how the ICC has helped us develop that facility. Now, all of the a sudden, we have those high performance facilities," Vuuren said.
He added that these improvements allow associate players to showcase their talent on the global stage. His message appeared aimed at reducing any impression of conflict with the ICC or the BCCI.
Gerhard Erasmus accused ICC of bias
The situation began when Gerhard Erasmus publicly questioned why Namibia were not given a night training slot at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. India reportedly had two sessions under lights, while Namibia trained in the afternoon.
Erasmus said his team would “rock up and do it the Namibian way,” but he also pointed out that his players lack regular exposure to international-standard floodlights back home. He hinted that this creates a disadvantage against top sides used to playing under lights.
Gerhard’s remarks were seen by some as criticism of the ICC’s scheduling fairness. Given Jay Shah’s position as ICC Chair and former BCCI secretary, the comments further hinted at biasedness. Social media framed it as a sharp shot at the establishment.
Namibia’s board, however, did not escalate the issue. Instead, they focused on acknowledging the broader support they receive from the ICC.
Focus still on India vs Namibia clash
On the field, Namibia face a tough challenge. India are coming off a win against the USA and look strong at the top of Group A. Suryakumar Yadav led from the front in the previous match. Jasprit Bumrah is expected to return after recovering from illness.
India may rest Abhishek Sharma due to health concerns, which could open the door for Sanju Samson. The Delhi pitch is known for high scores and short boundaries. Dew often plays a role in night matches, helping chasing teams.
Namibia, meanwhile, are coming off a loss to the Netherlands. They need a big performance to stay alive in the tournament. JJ Smit and Erasmus will have to lead from the front.
For now, the focus shifts back to cricket. Namibia have addressed the noise. The real answers will come on the field.
