The Netherlands Women’s team created history by securing their maiden qualification for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup after a composed 21-run win over the United States via the DLS method in the Super Six stage of the Global Qualifiers.
The victory completed a perfect run for the Dutch side, who finished the tournament with three wins from three matches and confirmed their place in the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales
Knowing that one more positive result would seal qualification, the Netherlands delivered under pressure.
Batting first, the USA posted 129 for 7 in their 20 overs, with medium pacer Hannah Landheer playing a crucial role by claiming 3 for 30 and keeping the scoring in check.
In response, the Dutch chase was set up by a confident opening partnership between Heather Siegers and Phebe Molkenboer, who added 57 runs for the first wicket.
Rain interrupted play after 12 overs, with the Netherlands well placed at 90 for 2, comfortably ahead of the DLS par score.
As weather conditions failed to improve, the match was abandoned, handing the Netherlands a deserved victory and sealing their historic qualification.
The Dutch campaign throughout the qualifiers was defined by consistency and balance.
They began with a solid win over Zimbabwe, successfully defending a modest total, and followed it up with an impressive batting display against Scotland, highlighted by Sterre Kalis’s unbeaten 87.
A tense two-run win over Nepal further showcased their ability to hold their nerve in pressure situations, with captain Babette de Leede leading from the front.
Bowling remained a major strength across the tournament. Isabel van der Woning emerged as a key performer, delivering match-winning spells against Nepal and Thailand, while contributions from the Siegers sisters ensured regular breakthroughs at critical moments.
Historically, the Netherlands has been a respected name in women’s cricket, featuring in multiple World Cups between 1988 and 2000.
However, the rise of T20 cricket had kept them away from the global stage for over two decades. This qualification marks a powerful return and reflects steady progress, strong leadership, and effective team planning.
Their historic qualification also adds to the growing list of Women’s Cricket ICC Tournament Wins, highlighting the steady rise of emerging teams like the Netherlands on the global stage.
As they prepare for their first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup appearance, the Netherlands will carry confidence built on collective performances and an unbeaten run.
Their qualification stands as a landmark moment for Dutch women’s cricket and signals their readiness to compete with the world’s best on the biggest stage.
