In the pivotal match, the Netherlands won the toss and chose to field first. Pakistan’s innings started on an uncertain note with the early dismissals of Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, and Imam-ul-Haq. The Men in Green found themselves in a precarious situation, but Saud Shakeel (68) and Mohammad Rizwan (68) assumed the responsibility of rebuilding the innings, forging a century partnership.
Bas de Leede’s impressive bowling figures (4/62) kept the Netherlands competitive by taking crucial wickets at crucial junctures. Pakistan also benefited from a vital partnership between Shadab and Nawaz, although they couldn’t see it through to the end.
Haris Rauf’s late contribution of 16 runs provided some relief as Pakistan managed to post a competitive total of 286 within their allotted overs. The Netherlands commenced their batting innings steadily, with Vikramjit Singh contributing 52 runs. The duo of Singh and Bas de Leede quietly established a fifty-run partnership without much ado.
Bas de Leede, in particular, played an exceptional innings, accumulating 68 runs from 67 deliveries and nearly single-handedly keeping the Netherlands in contention. However, as the match unfolded, the disparity in overall quality, particularly in batting, between the two teams became apparent.
— Vivek Pant (@ManasSingh45) October 6, 2023
De Leede eventually departed the field with a score of 67, wearing a disappointed expression. Haris Rauf delivered an impressive spell in the middle overs, securing Pakistan’s victory.
