In a display of sheer cricketing mastery, New Zealand continued their formidable run in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, trouncing the Netherlands by a resounding 99 runs at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Monday.
The Black Caps, riding high on confidence after their triumphant opening match against England, proved their mettle once again, overwhelming the Dutch with a combination of brilliant bowling and commanding batting.
The Kiwis’ top-order batsmen, featuring the likes of Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, and skipper Tom Latham, set the tone with a commanding display of strokeplay.
Despite facing a minor hiccup in the last 10 overs, losing two quick wickets, Mitchell Santner’s explosive innings of 36 runs off just 17 deliveries, punctuated by five boundaries, propelled New Zealand to a commanding total of 322 runs in their allotted 50 overs.
In response, the Netherlands found themselves in dire straits from the outset, as their opening pair, Vikramjti Singh and Max O’Dowd, failed to provide a solid foundation. Despite a valiant effort from the experienced Colin Ackermann, who scored a gritty 69 off 73 balls, the Dutch middle-order struggled to gain momentum.
Santner emerged as the nemesis for the Dutch, clinching a sensational five-wicket haul (5/59 in 10 overs), while Matt Henry and Rachin Ravindra provided crucial support with three and one wicket(s) respectively. The Dutch innings crumbled under the pressure, culminating in their dismissal for 223 runs.
Captain and wicketkeeper-batter Scott Edwards fought a lone battle, contributing 30 runs for the Netherlands. However, his efforts were in vain as New Zealand’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure, ensuring the Dutch batsmen never settled.
New Zealand’s commanding victory further solidifies their standing as a frontrunner in the tournament. With their next challenge against Bangladesh scheduled on October 13 at the spin-friendly wicket of Chennai, the Black Caps are poised for another electrifying encounter. Meanwhile, the Netherlands will look to regroup and strategize ahead of their clash against South Africa on October 17 in Dharamshala.
