New Delhi buzzes with anticipation as the T20 World Cup 2026 heats up. On Thursday, Namibia faces a formidable India in the 18th match at Arun Jaitley Stadium. But before the blockbuster showdown, Namibia’s captain Gerhard Erasmus has voiced strong dissatisfaction over his team’s training arrangements.
Erasmus highlighted a critical issue: his squad missed out on floodlit practice sessions at the venue. Namibia, fresh off a seven-wicket defeat to Netherlands in a morning game on Tuesday, had planned evening sessions to adapt to the day-night format against defending champions India.
Coach Craig Williams had outlined preparations for lights-on cricket. Yet, Namibia was slotted for an afternoon practice on Wednesday, while India enjoyed prime-time evening slots both days leading up to the match. Even Canada, gearing up for a Friday afternoon clash with UAE, got an evening session under lights.
In a pre-match press conference, Erasmus didn’t mince words. ‘We don’t have night or day-night matches back in Namibia. Infrastructure-wise, that’s our biggest challenge,’ he said. Most players, barring a few with experience in Nepal Premier League, ILT20, or prior World Cups, aren’t accustomed to floodlights. ‘We weren’t given night training before this game. India got two sessions, and Canada got one on Wednesday. Draw your own conclusions… We’ll just play the Namibian way – fight hard.’
The captain urged his young guns to seize the moment amid 40,000 roaring fans. ‘It’s a massive occasion. We know these Indian stars from IPL and international TV. Facing them under lights with that crowd will be an unforgettable experience for our youngsters,’ Erasmus added, emphasizing resilience over intimidation.
As underdogs, Namibia aims to channel grit against a star-studded Indian side. The scheduling controversy adds intrigue, but Erasmus insists his team will battle on their terms. Cricket fans await whether lights and legacy will tilt the scales or if Namibia’s fighting spirit shines through.