Namibia Cricket Ground

About the ground

The Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek is the headquarters of cricket in Namibia and the smallest venue at the 2027 tournament. Namibia’s rapid rise in the global game, including memorable recent World Cup appearances, has put this ground firmly on the map, and as co-host the country will be eager to show off its hospitality.

Its compact size means fans are close to the action, and the atmosphere is likely to be friendly and intimate rather than overwhelming.

Key CWC 2027 matches

Windhoek has the honour of starting the whole event. The three Super Series matches on 2, 4 and 6 October, all with 10:00 local starts, are played here between three qualifying teams, which will be confirmed once qualification is complete.

Group B action follows. England meet Bangladesh in a day/night game on 8 October (12:30 local start), and Sri Lanka play a qualifier on 10 October. The pick of the group fixtures is probably England v Sri Lanka on 13 October, a contest with plenty of World Cup history.

Getting there

Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) lies about 45 km east of the city, and the drive into Windhoek normally takes under an hour. Airport shuttles and taxis are available, and many hotels can arrange transfers. Within the city, use registered taxis or those recommended by your accommodation; ride-hailing options may be available but are less established than in South Africa.

Match-day transport arrangements for the tournament should be confirmed by organisers, so check official transport plans closer to the time.

Where to stay

Central Windhoek has a range of hotels within easy reach of most of the city. Suburbs such as Klein Windhoek and Ludwigsdorf are popular for guesthouses and restaurants in a quieter setting. With limited capacity at the ground and a smaller hotel stock than the big South African cities, it is wise to book early.

Match-day tips

Windhoek sits at high altitude, around 1,600 to 1,700 metres, and the sun is intense, while October and November are hot and mostly dry. Bring a hat, high-factor sun cream and plenty of water. Mornings and evenings can be noticeably cooler than the middle of the day, so a light layer is useful for the day/night games. The odd thunderstorm is possible as summer approaches.

Check the official stadium rules for bag policy and prohibited items. Cards are widely accepted in Windhoek, and the Namibian dollar is pegged to the South African rand, which is also accepted as legal tender. Keep valuables out of sight and use registered taxis, especially at night.

Beyond the cricket

Windhoek’s compact centre includes the Christuskirche and the Independence Memorial Museum. Daan Viljoen Game Reserve, close to the city, offers walks and wildlife. Namibia’s great natural sights are further afield: the red dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib desert are a long drive away, so they are best tackled as a multi-day trip, perhaps combined with Etosha National Park to the north.