Picture Credit: ICC/ Getty Images
The Netherlands delivered a composed performance to overcome Namibia by seven wickets in a Group A clash of the T20 World Cup 2026 at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
The win was anchored by Bas de Leede, whose influential contribution with bat and ball proved decisive as his side completed the chase with two overs remaining.
Pursuing a target of 157, the Netherlands encountered early trouble when opener Max O’Dowd departed for 7, leaving the score at 16.
The setback, however, did little to unsettle the side as Bas de Leede walked in at number three and took charge of the innings with assurance and intent.
Playing a controlled yet attacking knock, De Leede remained unbeaten on 72 from 48 deliveries, finding the boundary regularly with four sixes and five fours. His innings ensured the required run rate remained within reach throughout the chase.
De Leede forged several vital partnerships to guide the Netherlands home. He added 30 runs for the second wicket with Michael Levitt, who contributed 28, before stitching together a crucial 68-run stand with Colin Ackermann, who scored 32.
Later, De Leede combined effectively with captain Scott Edwards, whose unbeaten 18 helped complete a 43-run partnership that sealed the contest.
The Netherlands eventually reached 159 for 3 in 18 overs, with De Leede striking the winning boundary.
Namibia Post Competitive Total
Earlier in the match, Namibia, sent in to bat after losing the toss, posted a competitive 156 for 8. Nicol Loftie-Eaton led the scoring with a 38-ball 42, including two sixes and a four.
Jan Frylinck chipped in with 30 runs, while JJ Smit added 22. Captain Gerhard Erasmus provided late momentum with a brisk 18 off nine balls.
With the ball, Bas de Leede and Logan van Beek claimed two wickets apiece, while Aryan Dutt and Fred Klaassen picked up one each.
De Leede’s all-round excellence earned him the Player of the Match award, underlining his central role in the Netherlands’ convincing victory.
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