ICC World Cup 2023: Santner's Heroics give New Zealand a massive win over the Netherlands

Mitchell Santner's all-round performance with both bat and ball helped New Zealand get a massive victory against the Netherlands tonight. Despite the Dutch team's spirited effort, the Kiwis proved too formidable. With this win, New Zealand has secured two consecutive victories in the World Cup. In pursuit of a target of 323 runs, the Netherlands was dismissed for 223, suffering a defeat by a margin of 99 runs.

The Netherlands commenced their chase at a sluggish pace, compounded by the regular loss of wickets. At one juncture, their score stood at 67/3 after 17 overs. Colin Ackermann (69) and Teja Nidamanuru (30) tried to establish a substantial partnership, yet their 50-run alliance was disrupted by Teja's unfortunate runout. Mitchell Santner wreaked havoc on the entire Dutch batting lineup, preventing any chances of recovery. His five-wicket haul (5/59) contributed to the Kiwis' success, as the Netherlands was bundled out for 223 in 46.3 overs. With this performance, Santner became the first New Zealand spinner to a five-wicket haul in the World Cup. Pacer Matt Henry made an impression by taking three wickets (3/40).

In the first innings, New Zealand scored a big total, thanks to half-centuries from Will Young (70), Rachin Ravindra (51), and Tom Latham (53). Contributions from Daryll Mitchell (48), Mitchell Santner (36*), and Devon Conway (32) further bolstered the Kiwi total. The entire New Zealand batting unit maintained dominance over the Dutch bowlers right from the outset. Until the final over, it seemed as though New Zealand might conclude around the 300-run mark. However, a 21-run over in the closing stages propelled them to a score of 322/7 in their allotted 50 overs.

New Zealand will next face Bangladesh in Chennai on October 13. The Netherlands will play against South Africa in Dharamsala on October 17.

Scorecard:

New Zealand: 322/7 (50 overs)

Netherlands: 223/10 (46.3 overs)