Namibia rallying to keep World Cup hopes alive as coach quits

NEWS: Namibia’s bid for an eighth consecutive World Cup appearance has taken a knock with head coach Chrysander Botha stepping away, leaving the team in a swirl of uncertainty.

Botha had only been in charge of the Welwitchias for seven months, but citing work commitments, the former fullback decided to vacate the position of head coach.

Namibia’s director of rugby, Jacques Burger, has now taken over that role, but his start has been less than favourable as his side went down 19-59 against Jimmy Stonehouse’s Pumas in Windhoek on Saturday.

Namibia hosts Italy in Windhoek on Friday.

Burger was a fierce competitor in his playing days and a national icon. He took over as Director of Rugby in November, succeeding former South Africa coach Allister Coetzee, and is tasked with heading Namibia’s World Cup qualifying campaign.

With Botha gone, he’s now doubling down, assuming the head coach role under immense pressure. It’s a challenge that tests not only Namibia’s depth but also its resilience.

Joining Burgers’ coaching staff is fellow three-time World Cup veteran Darryl de la Harpe, now named skills coach. The duo, alongside Jaco Engels, Rohan Kitshoff, David Philander, and strength boss Sergio de la Harpe, will try to mold a side that hasn’t played a Test in nearly a year into a World Cup qualifier within weeks.

Namibia’s stakes on African rugby slipped dramatically last year when Zimbabwe knocked them out of the Africa Cup and went on to lift the trophy.

Now, with Uganda hosting this year’s edition, the stakes couldn’t be clearer – only the winner books a direct ticket to Australia 2027, while the runner-up faces a far tougher playoff path.

The downward spiral was evident as Namibia struggled to secure a 22-19 victory over Uganda in a warm-up match.

The quarterfinal clash with Senegal looms on July 8, and before that, a massive test awaits when Italy comes to Windhoek on June 27.

“It’s a big challenge, but we had to quickly make a plan after Chrysander’s resignation. My appointment as coach is just temporary till the qualifying rounds for the World Cup,” Botha told The Namibian.

“However, I have a lot of confidence in my team; there’s a very positive atmosphere in the squad. There are a lot of good people together, and it’s the same as in the business world; if you have good people around you, you will normally reach your goals,” he said.

.