In the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier Final, the Netherlands defeated Sri Lanka by seven wickets to secure their place at the 2023 World Cup in India. Sri Lanka made a strong start, reaching 45 for 1 in the powerplay. However, they lost wickets at regular intervals and were eventually bowled out for 233 in 47.5 overs. The Netherlands’ bowlers, Aryan Dutt (1 for 51) and Logan van Beek (2 for 40), were impressive in their attack.
The Netherlands got off to a good start, reaching 60 for 1 in the powerplay. They then lost a couple of wickets in quick succession, but Bas de Leede (59) and Scott Edwards (47) put on a 92-run partnership to steer the team home with seven wickets in hand. De Leede was the star of the show with the bat, hitting eight boundaries and two sixes. Edwards was also impressive, hitting five boundaries and a six. They put on a partnership of 92 runs in 10.2 overs to take the Netherlands close to victory.
The Netherlands’ win was their third in a row in the tournament, having defeated Scotland and Papua New Guinea in the previous rounds. Sri Lanka’s batting lineup was inconsistent throughout the tournament, and they were unable to put together a big total in the final. The Netherlands’ bowling attack was well-balanced, with a mix of pace and spin. They were able to take wickets at regular intervals and put Sri Lanka under pressure.
De Leede’s fifty was his second in the tournament, and he was the leading run-scorer for the Netherlands. Edwards’ fifty was his first in the tournament, and he was the second-leading run-scorer for the Netherlands.
The Netherlands’ win is a major achievement for the team, and they will be hoping to make an impact in the World Cup next year.