Cricket Namibia has described 2025 as a landmark year for the sport, marked by rapid institutional growth, global recognition, and major strides in both men's and women's cricket.
Reflecting on the year, Cricket Namibia Marketing Manager Natalia Nauyoma says the organisation recorded significant progress on and off the field, including the expansion of staff capacity and a sharp rise in Namibia's international cricket standing.
"2025 has been a year with so many opportunities and blessings. We've grown from an office of just five people to over 70 employees, which shows how much Cricket Namibia is contributing to communities and employment. On the field, we moved from 19th to sixth on the ICC scorecard, which really shows how cricket in Namibia is growing globally" Natalia said.
Nauyoma also highlighted international recognition as a major milestone, with Cricket Namibia once again receiving the ICC Development Initiative Award, largely driven by grassroots programmes such as the Ashburton Cricket initiative.
"We were recognised again by the ICC for our development initiatives, especially through the Ashburton Cricket programme. Being acknowledged alongside cricketing giants like India and Pakistan shows that what we are doing at grassroots level is truly impactful" Natalia said.
While every year presents its challenges, Nauyoma says 2025 was largely defined by opportunity, with strong support from government, stakeholders, and the public, particularly ahead of the ICC Under-19 World Cup set for January 2026.
Looking ahead, Cricket Namibia says its priority remains building a globally competitive, inclusive, and values-based sport, while continuing to bring international cricket to home soil and strengthening engagement with fans and communities.
"Our vision is to be globally competitive, professional, and inclusive. In 2026, we're bringing more international cricket to Namibia and inviting everyone—schools, families, sponsors, and fans to be part of the journey. The support we've received has been incredible, and we want to keep building on that together" Natalia said.
As Cricket Namibia prepares for a busy 2026 calendar, the organisation has called on Namibians to continue backing the sport, both in the stands and behind the scenes, as cricket's footprint in the country continues to grow.