DELHI — February 10, 2026 — The Netherlands have officially announced their arrival at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. In a clinical display of power and precision, the Dutch dismantled Namibia by seven wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, securing their first points of the tournament in spectacular fashion.
Driven by a masterclass all-round performance from Bas de Leede, the Netherlands chased down a target of 157 with 12 balls to spare, cementing their status as a force to be reckoned with in Group A.
Match Summary: Clinical Dutch Dominance
| Team | Score | Top Performer |
| Namibia | 156/8 (20 Overs) | J.N. Loftie-Eaton (42 off 38) |
| Netherlands | 159/3 (18 Overs) | Bas de Leede (72 off 48)* |
Result: Netherlands won by 7 wickets.
Player of the Match: Bas de Leede (72* & 2/20)
Namibia Innings: Disciplined Dutch Attack Stifles Eagles
After winning the toss and electing to field, the Dutch attack led by Logan van Beek (2/13) and Bas de Leede (2/20) gave Namibia no room to breathe. Despite a resilient 42 from Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton and a late cameo by JJ Smit (22), the Namibian “Eagles” struggled to find the boundary consistently on a gripping Delhi surface.
The Dutch fielding was sharp and organized, ensuring that Namibia’s total of 156/8 remained well within reach.
The Chase: De Leede’s Masterclass in Delhi
The Netherlands’ pursuit began with a bang. Michael Levitt (28 off 15) provided a blistering start, putting the Namibian bowlers on the back foot immediately. However, it was the 67-run partnership between Colin Ackermann (32) and Bas de Leede that anchored the innings.
De Leede was in sublime form, smoking 4 sixes and 5 fours in his unbeaten 72. He finished the game in style, launching a massive six to seal the victory and cap off a historic night for Dutch cricket.
“This win gives us the momentum we needed after a tough start,” said captain Scott Edwards. “Bas showed today why he is one of the best in the world, but it was the discipline in the field that really set the tone.”
Record-Breaking Night for the Netherlands
This victory wasn’t just about the points; it was about the history books:
-
Most Wins: This marks the 11th T20 World Cup victory for the Netherlands—the highest by any Associate nation.
-
Dominant Chase: The 7-wicket margin is the largest successful chase (by wickets) for the Netherlands in their T20 World Cup history.
What’s Next for Group A?
The Netherlands will look to carry this clinical form into their upcoming fixtures as they eye a spot in the Super 8s. Namibia, meanwhile, faces a high-pressure scenario in their next outing to keep their tournament dreams alive.
Stay tuned to PingTV for the latest T20 World Cup 2026 updates, including live scores, ball-by-ball commentary, and exclusive video highlights.
Read More News
India vs West Indies 2nd Test, Day 3: Campbell, Hope Fight Back After Kuldeep Yadav’s Fifer
