Gary Kirsten’s entry into the new team. (Photo- Luke Walker/Gallo Images/Getty Images)
The year 2011 brought a historic moment for Indian cricket, when Team India won the ODI World Cup title after a long wait. Team India won the trophy after a long gap of 28 years under the captaincy of MS Dhoni. Former South African batsman Gary Kirsten also had an important contribution in this historic victory, who was the head coach of Team India at that time. He has now joined a new team.
Gary Kirsten’s entry into the new team
Namibia Cricket Board has made a big announcement before the T20 World Cup 2026, they have appointed former South African batsman and coach Gary Kirsten as advisor to their team. Gary Kirsten, along with head coach Craig Williams, will be preparing for this mega event to be held in India and Sri Lanka, which will be played in February-March 2026. This step is a big step towards strengthening Namibia’s emerging cricket team.
Gary Kirsten’s cricket journey has always been spectacular. While playing for South Africa from 1993 to 2004, he attracted the world’s attention with his batting. After that he established a cricket academy in Cape Town, which became a center for developing young players. His success in coaching reached its peak in the 2011 ODI World Cup, when he led the Indian team to the title. Apart from this, he also did a great job as the head coach of the South African national team. Recently was associated with Pakistan team in 2024.
Will face Team India
Namibia’s team has been placed in Group A for the T20 World Cup 2026. Apart from Namibia, there are also teams from India, Pakistan, USA and Netherlands in this group. This means that Gary Kirsten will also face Team India in this tournament. Let us tell you, Namibia’s men’s team has progressed rapidly in T20 cricket in recent years. After making it to the 2021, 2022 and 2024 T20 World Cup, it is going to play in 2026 also.