Bernard Scholtz

Bernard Scholtz is the premier spin bowler for Namibia and one of the most respected left-arm orthodox spinners in international cricket. A veteran of the national side since 2008, he has become the defensive and tactical heartbeat of the Richelieu Eagles' bowling attack. Known for his metronomic accuracy and ability to stifle even the most aggressive batters, Scholtz holds the prestigious distinction of being ranked 4th in the ICC ODI Bowling Rankings as of early 2026—a historic achievement for an Associate nation cricketer. With 100 ODI wickets at a remarkable average of 18.89 and an economy rate of just 3.36, he is widely regarded as one of the most difficult bowlers to score against in world cricket.

His impact remains equally profound in the T20 format, where he has claimed nearly 80 wickets with a career economy rate of 6.19. Scholtz’s ability to perform under the brightest lights was evident during the 2024 T20 World Cup, where he delivered exceptionally tight spells against top-tier opponents like Australia and England. More recently, in late 2025, he played a crucial role in Namibia's historic one-off T20I victory over South Africa, maintaining his reputation as a big-game specialist. Whether he is leading the spin department for the NPL Bears or spearheading Namibia’s quest for a deep run in the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, Scholtz’s tactical intelligence and world-class consistency make him the ultimate anchor for the Namibian defense.