Netherlands tighten grip on Qualifier spot with win over Nepal

Netherlands strengthened their bid for a place at next year’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier with a composed six‑wicket victory over Nepal in Utrecht. Alex Roy’s 3/24 and Roelof van der Merwe’s superb 3/15 dismantled Nepal’s innings, limiting them to 157. Captain Scott Edwards then anchored the chase with an unbeaten 61, guiding his side home with more than five overs to spare.

Noah Croes added a valuable 34* and praised the collective effort, noting the early pressure created by Roy and Kyle Klein before the spinners tightened control. He highlighted Edwards’ steady presence during a tricky batting phase as the pair closed out the match efficiently.

The win consolidates the Netherlands’ third place in League 2, edging them closer to automatic entry into the Qualifier. Attention now shifts to Saturday’s clash with Namibia, with Croes stressing recovery, preparation and the aim of securing another crucial victory.