SHARJAH: Gerhard Erasmus remained not out for 53 as Namibia beat Ireland by eight wickets to book their maiden ticket to T20 World Cup. 

Set to chase 126 in 20 overs, Namibia’s batter stood firm and calm during the run-chase. Despite losing a quick wicket of opener Craig Williams, Namibia’s middle-order kept things going for their team.

Erasmus stood out exceptionally well and scored 53 runs off 49 balls laced with three boundaries and a six. David Wiese supported him strongly and scored 28 off 14 balls including two sixes and a boundary. They both spent quality time at the crease and added match-winning 53 runs.

Earlier, Ireland fell apart despite a good opening start as Namibia restricted them to 125-8 in their last Qualifying Round match of T20 World Cup.

Ireland’s openers Paul Stirling and Kevin O’Brien provided a solid start to their team with 62-runs stand. But, their wickets put Ireland in deep trouble as they started losing wickets after regular intervals.

Stirling’s power-packed knock including five boundaries and a six helped him score 38 off 24 balls whereas O’Brien made 25 with the help of two boundaries. Skipper Andy Balbirnie contributed 21 runs but no other batter even entered double figures.

Jan Frylinck bagged three wickets followed by Wiese with two scalps and JJ Smit and Bernard Scholtz with a wicket each.