Sybrand Engelbrecht and Logan van Beek’s Partnership Lifts Netherlands to 262 against Sri Lanka

Sybrand Engelbrecht and Logan van Beek’s vital 130-run partnership rescues the Netherlands, setting a target of 262 runs against Sri Lanka.

Advertisement

In a remarkable turn of events, Sybrand Engelbrecht and Logan van Beek came to the Netherlands’ rescue after losing six wickets for just 91 runs. Their remarkable 130-run partnership helped the Netherlands set a challenging target of 262 runs against Sri Lanka.

The Netherlands, known for their stunning victory over South Africa in Dharamsala, are seeking another strong performance, especially from their top order, as they aim for back-to-back wins. The top three batsmen, Vikramjit Singh, Max O’Dowd, and Colin Ackermann, have faced challenges in providing a solid start, placing extra pressure on the middle order.

Their morale-boosting win against South Africa has bolstered the team’s confidence, and they are eager to continue their impressive run against Sri Lanka.

The star all-rounder, Bas de Leede, has been delivering with the ball, and the team expects him to make a substantial impact with the bat as well. The Netherlands’ performance against the Proteas demonstrated their determination to reach the semifinals in their first World Cup appearance in 12 years.

Also Read: Five Memorable Indian Performances Leading to Wins Against New Zealand in Men’s ODI WC

On the other hand, Sri Lanka faces concerns in the bowling department as they have struggled to produce a collective performance so far. While their batting has been decent, posting 300-plus totals in their initial matches, their bowling has been a weak link, primarily due to injuries.

Sri Lanka will rely on pacer Dilshan Madushanka, the leading wicket-taker in the event with seven scalps. Madushanka displayed impressive swing against Australia at the same venue and aims to replicate that performance against the Netherlands’ struggling top order.

The Lucknow wicket has favored the team batting first, with the ball moving under lights. Therefore, if chasing, the Netherlands must be cautious against Madushanka’s seam bowling, especially Vikramjit, who has faced challenges against left-arm pacers.

The Dutch will also turn to Roelof van der Merwe, whose orthodox spin bowling could be beneficial on this wicket.

Netherlands vs. Sri Lanka Head-to-Head Record:

  • September 6, 2002: Sri Lanka won by 206 runs in Colombo
  • July 4, 2006: Sri Lanka won by 195 runs in Amstelveen
  • July 6, 2006: Sri Lanka won by 55 runs in Amstelveen
  • June 30, 2023: Sri Lanka won by 21 runs in Bulawayo
  • July 9, 2023: Sri Lanka won by 128 runs in Harare

Probable Teams:

Netherlands: Vikramjit Singh, Max O’Dowd, Colin Ackermann, Bas de Leede, Sybrand Engelbrecht, Teja Nidamanuru, Scott Edwards, Logan van Beek, Roelof van der Merwe, Aryan Dutt, Paul van Meekeren

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha, Dilshan Madushanka