The Netherlands started their campaign in the ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy with a controlled and composed 4-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the Asian Institute of Technology Ground in Bangkok. Chasing a modest target of 94, the Dutch women negotiated a shaky start but ultimately sealed the win in under 19 overs.
Winning the toss, the UAE batted first but struggled to build momentum. Their innings lacked big partnerships and consistent strike hitting, which resulted in a below-par total. The Netherlands bowlers were disciplined, combining pressure and variety to restrict their opponents to just 94 for 7.
In reply, the Netherlands’ chase was anchored by a solid opening partnership between Sterre Kalis and Phebe Molkenboer, who put together a crucial 55-run stand. Kalis and Molkenboer’s calmness and ability to rotate the strike laid the foundation for the chase. Molkenboer played intelligently, while Kalis looked composed under pressure, allowing the middle order to comfortably complete the chase.
The Netherlands’ bowling unit put in a commanding performance to set up the game early on. Iris Zwilling picked up 2/20, and Robine Rijke impressed with her 2/11, showing excellent control and movement. Frederique Overdijk and Caroline de Lange also bowled tight, economical spells, returning 2/20 apiece. Their collective effort kept the UAE batting under consistent duress, never allowing a true recovery.
Although the target was small, the UAE showed character in patches but lacked the finishing edge and collective execution needed to put up a competitive score. Their innings was punctuated by occasional aggression, but Dutch bowlers responded with application and control, ensuring breakthroughs at regular intervals.
For the Netherlands, the win is a positive sign of their depth and maturity. The top order laid the foundation, and the bowling unit chipped in at regular intervals—reflecting a balanced performance and strong team unity. Kalis and Molkenboer’s opening stand was especially crucial, allowing the middle order to bat with clarity. The bowling group also showed they could execute under pressure, making it difficult for UAE to post or chase runs freely.
This victory gives the Netherlands confidence as they navigate the round-robin stage, where consistency will be key. For the UAE, the loss is a tough one but will highlight areas to work on: building partnerships, better rotation of strike, and tightening their death overs.
As the tournament unfolds, the Netherlands will aim to build on this promising start, while the UAE will need to regroup and sharpen up to stay in contention for the top spots.
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