England Set Namibia Target of 127 in Rain-Marred T20 World Cup Clash

Defending Champions Face Must-Win Game

England's Chances of Reaching Super 8s Hang in the Balance

England set Namibia a target of 127 in a rain-marred T20 World Cup game that could determine the reigning champions' fate in the tournament. The match, played in Antigua on Saturday, was reduced to a 10-over-a-side affair due to heavy rain.

England, who needed a win to stay in contention for the Super 8s, posted a total of 122 for five. Captain Jos Buttler top-scored with 34 from 17 balls, while Harry Brook chipped in with 27 from 12. Namibia's pace attack, led by Ruben Trumpelmann, kept things tight, with the seamer taking two wickets for 20 runs.

Namibia's chase was further hampered by rain, which delayed the start of their innings and reduced it to just seven overs. They reached 75 for five before the heavens opened again, with Gerhard Erasmus (30*) and Jan Frylinck (23*) leading their charge.

The result leaves England needing to win their remaining group game against Ireland on Tuesday to secure a place in the Super 8s. Namibia, meanwhile, are eliminated from the tournament.

The match was a tale of two halves, with England dominating the first half with the bat and Namibia fighting back in the second with the ball. Ultimately, the rain proved to be the decisive factor, with Namibia falling just short of their target.