Bas de Leede delivered a magnificent all-round performance, taking a five-wicket haul and smashing his first century, as Netherlands defeated Scotland by four wickets in a crucial Super Six match of the ODI World Cup Qualifiers. De Leede's exceptional contributions ensured Netherlands became the tenth and final team to secure their spot in the 2023 ODI World Cup, scheduled to be held in India from October 5 to November 19.
After an impressive bowling spell of 5/52, restricting Scotland to 277/9, De Leede showcased his batting prowess by scoring 123 runs off just 92 balls. His innings included seven fours and five sixes, at a strike rate of 133.7, marking his first ODI century. Alongside notable contributions from Vikramjit Singh (40) and Saqib Zulfiqar (33 not out), De Leede powered Netherlands to chase down the target of 278 in 42.5 overs, securing their ticket to the ODI World Cup.
De Leede's extraordinary performance made him only the fourth player in men's ODI history to achieve a century and a five-wicket haul in the same match. Netherlands will participate in the 50-over World Cup for the first time since the 2011 edition, thanks to their impressive net run rate and stunning run-chase against Scotland in Bulawayo.
The victory against Scotland ensures Netherlands' fifth appearance in an ODI World Cup, later this year in India. They will face Sri Lanka in the final of the Qualifiers, scheduled to be held at Harare on Sunday.
Choosing to bowl first, Netherlands' decision at the toss paid off when Logan van Beek dismissed Matthew Cross for a two-ball duck in the opening over. Despite a solid partnership between Brandon McMullen (106) and Richie Berrington (64), De Leede's crucial breakthroughs and five-wicket haul limited Scotland's total to below 300.
During the chase, Netherlands had a solid start with a 65-run opening partnership between Vikramjit and Max O'Dowd. However, Scotland fought back, picking up wickets at regular intervals. With the game finely poised, De Leede played a match-winning innings, reaching his half-century and then unleashing a flurry of boundaries to seal the victory. Zulfiqar provided valuable support, and Netherlands reached the target with time to spare.
Despite missing several key players during the qualifiers, Netherlands showcased their strength and determination to secure their place in the upcoming ODI World Cup. The team's outstanding performance serves as a testament to their depth and ability to compete at the highest level.
Brief Scores: Scotland 277/9 in 50 overs (Brandon McMullen 106, Richie Berrington 64; Bas de Leede 5/52, Ryan Klein 2/59) lost to Netherlands 278/6 in 42.5 overs (Bas de Leede 123, Vikramjit Singh 40; Michael Leask 2/42, Chris Greaves 1/28) by four wickets.