By Already identified as the “Group of Death” when the draw was unveiled in January, Group D features the Netherlands and Nepal alongside three full members: South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. The decision to seed the tournament based on rankings rather than qualifying led to the Dutch being classified as a fourth-tier team despite qualifying directly. This placement, along with Nepal’s inclusion, has placed them in what is considered the toughest group of the cup on paper. However, none of the teams appear to be in top form coming into the tournament, making the group difficult to predict. The group’s challenging nature is also attributed to the grueling logistical schedule imposed on the teams, with the Dutch especially facing significant travel distances during the group stage.
Netherlands
The Netherlands’ recent performance at global events, including qualifying for the 50-over World Cup and finishing in the top eight at the 2022 T20 World Cup, has raised expectations. Many consider the Dutch the most likely of the Associates to reach the Super 8 stage. However, they face tough competition. Despite defeating South Africa in both previous tournaments, they remain underdogs in that match. Sri Lanka has a history of defeating the Dutch convincingly, and Bangladesh, although beatable, has a tendency to secure scrappy wins against the Netherlands. Nepal, their first opponent, could potentially derail their campaign from the outset.
Preparation has been less than ideal for the Dutch. Their win over Sri Lanka in their sole completed warm-up match in Florida should be taken with a grain of salt, as Sri Lanka rested most of their key bowlers. A second warm-up against Canada was washed out due to heavy rain in Dallas. In contrast, Nepal, their first opponent, had the opportunity to play at the venue in their match the week before. The absence of head coach Ryan Cook was felt during the Netherlands’ home tri-series against Ireland and Scotland, where they finished last with a 1-3 record. This result also ended their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup through rankings, meaning a top-eight finish at this edition is their only path to direct qualification for the next World Cup.
The loss of key players to injury has further impacted the Dutch team. Spearhead Fred Klaassen has been sidelined with a chronic back complaint, and Daniel Doram’s return has been delayed due to a broken right hand. Additionally, Roelof van de Merwe and Colin Ackermann remain with their counties for the T20 Blast.
Despite these challenges, there are bright spots for the Dutch team. Youngster Michael Levitt has performed well at the top of the order in his short T20I career, easing pressure off the capable but out-of-form Max O’Dowd. Bas de Leede’s all-round abilities allow for an extra batsman in the side. Tim Pringle’s return adds depth and late-hitting ability to the lineup. In-form seam all-rounder Logan van Beek provides depth to the batting and experience with the ball at the death. Despite injuries to key bowlers like Klaassen, Brandon Glover, Ryan Klein, and Timm van der Gugten, the Dutch pace bowling unit remains strong, with Vivian Kingma, Paul van Meekeren, and Kyle Klein in good form.
While the Dutch have not been at their best leading up to their tournament opener and face the possibility of a first-match defeat, they remain a team that backs themselves against all opponents in the group and potentially beyond.
How they qualified
Memorably, the Netherlands earned their place at this T20 World Cup with their performance at the last one. Two wins in the preliminary group against the UAE and Namibia, followed by a close defeat to Sri Lanka, secured their spot in the main phase. They needed help from the UAE, who defeated Namibia in their last match. In the Super 12s, the Dutch initially struggled but won their last two games against Zimbabwe and South Africa, securing a top-eight finish and a spot in the USA and West Indies.
World Cup History
The Netherlands has a history of defeating more illustrious opponents at global events, with memorable wins in previous World Cups. Their most memorable win came in the 2009 World T20, where they defeated hosts England in a thrilling last-ball finish. While they missed the next two tournaments, their performance in the most recent edition showed they can still compete with the best.
Realistic Expectations
While considered a potential surprise package for the Super Eight, the Dutch should focus on one match at a time in the group stage. A win against Nepal in their first game could open up possibilities for the next stage. Anything less would be seen as a failure, potentially sending them back to regional competition.
Why Watch?
The Netherlands has a history of defeating South Africa at World Cups, and they are known for pulling off stunning net run rate heists. Additionally, their ’96-throwback orange kits add to the spectacle. Logan van Beek’s celebratory dance is also a highlight. Overall, the Dutch team promises an exciting and unpredictable performance.
Squad: Scott Edwards (c), Max O’Dowd, Michael Levitt, Vikram Singh, Bas de Leede, Sybrand Engelbrecht, Teja Nidamanuru, Wesley Barresi, Logan van Beek, Paul van Meekeren, Kyle Klein, Saqib Zulfiqar, Tim Pringle, Aryan Dutt, Vivian Kingma
Netherlands and Nepal’s Fate Hangs in the Balance in the Group of Death
Nepal
Returning to the world stage after a decade, Nepal clinched qualification by defeating the UAE in the decisive semi-final in front of a passionate home crowd. The team carries a weight of expectation unlike any other Associate, with a fervent following at home that rivals more established cricketing countries.
The team also faces fatigue from an extended touring schedule, barely getting a break since March. They toured Hong Kong, played in the Asia Premier Cup in Oman, hosted West Indies A, toured against Windward Islands, and participated in official warm-ups in the USA. Nepal appeared fatigued in their warm-up against Canada, but a look at the conditions could be an advantage ahead of their opener against the Netherlands. An extended break due to a washed-out warm-up against the hosts may also be beneficial.
Nepal’s main concern ahead of the tournament is their lack of form with the bat. Skipper Rohit Paudel and his deputy Dipendera Singh Airee are exceptions, with Paudel looking in great touch against West Indies A. However, Paudel has been carrying the batting, and other top-order batsmen like Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, and Anil Sah have looked inconsistent.
While Nepal has a variety of all-rounders in the middle and lower order, they often leave too much for them to do. Vice-captain DS Airee is crucial to the middle order, being a canny offspinner and explosive batsman. The bowling unit, led by Sompal Kami and Karan KC, is capable but may lack penetration against stronger opposition. The absence of star legspinner Sandeep Lamichhane, who was denied a US visa, is a significant loss.
Nepal’s chances of success hinge on their ability to find form with the bat. With runs on the board, their varied and experienced bowling attack can trouble any team in the group. However, their current form suggests that getting those runs will be their biggest challenge.
How they qualified
Nepal faced a tough qualification path, switching to straight regional competition
