Namibian teenager Faf du Plessis has been named captain of the U-19 team for World Cup qualifiers. He shares his name with former South African skipper Faf du Plessis, who is entering his 13th IPL season with Delhi Capitals as vice-captain. Namibia must qualify for the 2026 U-19 World Cup while Australia is the defending champion.
The spotlight shines on a Namibian teenager, Franscois Schalk du Plessis, commonly known as Faf, as he captures the captaincy of Namibia’s Under-19 cricket team for the World Cup qualifiers. He shares a name with the notable former South African captain, giving rise to expectations as he embarks on his cricketing journey. Like his famed namesake, he excels as a right-handed batter and a leg-spin bowler.
Namibia’s U-19 team will initiate their qualifying matches against Nigeria on March 28 in Lagos, followed by contests against Kenya, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, and Uganda. The 2026 ICC U-19 World Cup is co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia, and although Zimbabwe automatically qualifies as a host, Namibia is tasked with proving themselves through the regional qualifiers.
Australia, entering as defending champions after a remarkable victory against India in the 2024 final, managed an intense one-wicket win over Pakistan in the semi-finals, while India narrowly defeated hosts South Africa. Amidst this backdrop, the elder Faf du Plessis, the former Proteas captain, is gearing up for his 13th Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
The 40-year-old cricketer has signed with Delhi Capitals for ₹20 million during the 2024 mega auction held in Jeddah. Recently confirmed as vice-captain, he will support Axar Patel, who will lead the team for the first time. Delhi Capitals will commence their IPL 2025 journey against Lucknow Super Giants in Visakhapatnam.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Faf du Plessis remarked, “I’m vice-captain of DC and I’m very excited. Delhi’s been great, the boys have been fantastic, definitely feel happy and I feel ready.” As one Faf embarks on his promising career, the other continues to thrive in T20 cricket, united by their passion for the game.
In summary, the emergence of Faf du Plessis from Namibia alongside the seasoned former South African captain illustrates two distinct yet parallel journeys in cricket. As the young captain prepares to lead his team into the U-19 World Cup qualifiers, the former Proteas skipper is set to embrace a new leadership challenge in the IPL. Both individuals, although at different stages in their careers, share a profound commitment and passion for the game.
Original Source: gulfnews.com
