Gobabis Bulls crowned 2026 Desert Ice T20 League champions
Gobabis Bulls were crowned champions of the 2026 Nedbank Namibia Desert Ice T20 League after defeating Run Whisperers by 13 runs in a thrilling final at the United Cricket Grounds on Sunday.
The Bulls posted an imposing 256/7 before restricting Run Whisperers to 243/5 to secure the title and the N$50 000 winners' prize. Run Whisperers received N$10 000 as runners-up after an impressive campaign.
The victory concluded the fourth edition of the tournament, organised by Impact Cricket Namibia and sponsored by Nedbank Namibia through its Pay Today and Avo SuperShop platforms. The competition featured eight teams, 160 players and 30 matches, providing valuable match experience for players from junior, premier and national levels.
Gobabis' innings was built around a magnificent century from Kobus Brand
, while Run Whisperers mounted a spirited chase, remaining in contention until the closing overs.
Run Whisperers captain Abri Oberholzer praised both teams after the match.
"We had a lot of confidence during the chase, but unfortunately we lost wickets at crucial moments. Credit to the Gobabis bowlers, they didn't give us any freebies," he said.
"The most important thing is that we enjoyed it. It was a really competitive match and one of the most enjoyable finals I've played in."
Gobabis captain Keith Kondo said the victory was especially rewarding after last year's disappointment.
"It's been a long season and credit to Run Whisperers, they made it very difficult for us. We've only lost one game this season and that's encouraging with the young players coming through," he said.
Kondo added that one of his decisive bowling changes late in the innings was based on instinct.
"It was a gut feeling, and thankfully it worked out."
Run Whisperers' Nyashadzaishe Nyasha was named Player of the Tournament after another outstanding performance.
"I think Gobabis deserved to win. Looking at how they played throughout the tournament, they earned it," Nyasha said.
He added that this year's competition was the strongest yet, with every team contributing to a more competitive tournament.
Asad Abbas finished as Bowler of the Tournament after claiming 13 wickets, while the successful conclusion of the league highlighted its growing role in developing Namibian cricket and preparing players for higher levels of the game.
