In a thrilling showdown for World Cup qualification, the Netherlands triumphed over Scotland, earning their place in the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India.
Bas de Leede delivered an exceptional display of bowling and batting, propelling the Netherlands to victory in a crucial qualifying match held at Queens Sports Club Ground in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
Notably, de Leede became only the fourth player in men’s ODI history to achieve a remarkable feat of taking a five-wicket haul and scoring a century in the same match.
READ MORE: Bangladesh Captain Tamim Iqbal Announces Retirement
The clash between the Netherlands and Scotland was an exhilarating affair, culminating in the Netherlands successfully chasing down a target of 278 runs in just 42.5 overs. The match showcased the Netherlands’ skill and determination, with Bas de Leede playing a pivotal role in their glorious triumph.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, the Netherlands made a fruitful decision as Logan van Beek dismissed Matthew Cross for a quick dismissal in the opening over.
Bas de Leede further dealt blows to Scotland’s innings by breaking the opening partnership and subsequently dismissing Christopher McBride and Brandon McMullen. De Leede’s crucial contributions continued as he sent George Munsey back to the pavilion.
READ MORE: PCB Committee Formed; Zaka Ashraf Named Chairman
However, McMullen, who had settled into the situation, assumed control of the match. Patiently constructing his innings, he punished loose deliveries and eventually reached a well-deserved half-century.
McMullen’s acceleration following this milestone resulted in a formidable 137-run partnership with Richie Berrington, the highest ODI partnership against the Netherlands for Scotland. McMullen went on to achieve his second century of the tournament.
Finally, Netherlands found a breakthrough when McMullen was caught behind off Ryan Klein’s bowling, having scored an impressive 106 runs. Nonetheless, Berrington continued his fine form and also reached a well-deserved half-century before being dismissed by de Leede in the 45th over.
READ MORE: England Make Squad Changes for Ashes Test
During the chase, the Netherlands started steadily, forging a solid half-century opening partnership. However, they faced a setback, losing three wickets and struggling at 93/3 by the 20th over. Yet, Bas de Leede held firm, reaching his fifty and feeling the pressure of the qualification scenario.
Zulfiqar provided invaluable support as the Dutch team aimed to increase the scoring rate. When the equation boiled down to 45 runs required off 24 balls, de Leede decided to seize the momentum.
De Leede launched a blistering assault, smashing consecutive sixes to complete a phenomenal century. Zulfiqar joined in the attacking display, hitting a crucial six that alleviated the pressure on the Netherlands.
READ MORE: Hyundai, Kia to Sponsor FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023
The Dutch team continued their onslaught with two more sixes in the subsequent over, all but sealing their victory. Although de Leede was unfortunately run-out in the following over, Logan van Beek stepped up and scored the winning runs, sparking jubilation among his teammates.