Namibia head to the World Cup looking to spring a few surprises and, in doing so, claim their first-ever win at the tournament.
The Welwitschias, currently ranked 23rd in the world, have appeared in every edition of the World Cup since 1999 but failed to secure a single victory.
Could this year be any different? The side have been drawn alongside South Africa, New Zealand, Italy and Canada in a tough-looking Group B, raising the prospect of another fruitless return at the competition.
Canada, who've endured a disappointing 2019, may present Namibia's best chances of recording a win; they meet in the final game of the group on Sunday 13 October.
With Jacques Burger now retired, there are no household names in the current squad. Former Sharks centre Johan Deysel is captain while lock Tjiuee Uanivi caught the eye at the 2015 World Cup.
Squad
Forwards: Obert Nortje, Louis van der Westhuizen, Torsten van Jaarsveld, Aranos Coetzee, AJ de Klerk, André Rademeyer, Desiderius Sethie, Nelius Theron, Johan Retief, Tjiuee Uanivi, PJ van Lill, Adriaan Booysen, Wian Conradie, Thomasau Forbes, Prince Gaoseb, Max Katjijeko, Rohan Kitshoff, Janco Venter.
Backs: Helarius Kisting, Lesley Klim, PJ Walters, Chad Plato, Johann Tromp, Darryl de la Harpe, Johan Deysel, JC Greyling, Justin Newman, Janry du Toit, Cliven Loubser, Eugene Jantjies, Damian Stevens.
Head coach
Philip Davies. The former Wales international was first appointed as a technical advisor to the Namibian national side in 2014. In June of the following year it was announced that Davies would take charge as head coach following the resignation of Danie Vermeulen.
Key player
Johan Deysel: The centre has represented Namibia since 2013 and featured in the 2015 World Cup where he memorably crossed the white line against defending champions New Zealand. He's set to lead the side out as captain in Japan.
Past record
Namibia have finished bottom of their group at every World Cup since 1999.
Fixtures
- Sunday 22 September – Italy v Namibia (Osaka), 6.15am (BST)
- Saturday 28 September – South Africa v Namibia (Toyota), 10.45am
- Sunday 6 October – New Zealand v Namibia (Tokyo), 5.45am
- Sunday 13 October – Namibia v Canada (Kamaishi), 4.15am
Odds
Namibia to win the World Cup: 7500/1
