Netherlands have registered 20 points in the World Cup Super League following their 4-wicket win over Ireland in the decider at the Sportpark Maarschalkerweerd, Utrecht. The victory helped Pieter Seelaar’s men win the series at 2-1.
Ireland were bowled out for 163 in 49.2 overs after skipper Andy Balbirnie won the toss and opted to bat first. Apart from Harry Tector (58) and George Dockrell (40), no Ireland batter scored in excess of 25. Left-arm seamer Fred Klaassen returned 3-23 in his 10 overs. He was ably supported by Logan van Beek (3-29) and Timm van der Gugten (2-22).
Coming at the chase, Stephan Myburgh (74) and Max O’Dowd (36) added a 66-run opening stand in 14 overs. Off-spinner Simi Singh (3-29) and Barry McCarthy then struck to reduce Netherlands to 96/3 in the 25th over. But Myburgh then held the fort, adding 62 with Bas de Leede (18 off 66) for the fourth wicket before falling to Simi.
After Myburgh’s departure, Netherlands lost two more wickets in just four runs. Coming at No. 8, van Beek hit the match-winning boundary to ensure their win with 25 balls to spare.
Myburgh was adjudged Player of the Match for his steady 74 off 119 balls in the decider, while van Beek bagged the Player of the Series trophy for his all-round show (55 runs, 6 wickets at 17.83).
Brief Scores
Ireland 163 in 49.2 overs (Tector 58; Klaassen 3-23) lost to Netherlands 166/6 in 45.5 overs (Myburgh 74; Simi 3-29) by 4 wickets with 25 balls to spare. Player of the Match: Stephan Myburgh.
Netherlands win series 2-1. Player of the Series: Logan van Beek.