ICC World Cup 2023: Bowlers ensure Pakistan comfortable win against Netherlands

HYDERABAD: In their opening clash against the Netherlands, Pakistan secured a comfortable victory by 81 runs. Dutch all-rounder Bas de Leede's stellar performance with the bat and the ball (67, 4/62) ultimately proved in vain.

Pakistan's batters and bowlers collaborated effectively to ensure their commanding win. Saud Shakeel won the Player of the Match award for his effective contribution with the bat.

Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, the Netherlands seemed to have made the right decision as Pakistan found themselves in trouble early, losing three wickets for just 38 runs.

When the top order faltered, Mohammed Rizwan (68) and Saud Shakeel (68) took charge, forging a crucial 120-run partnership, with both notching up half-centuries. However, Aryan Dutt of the Netherlands eventually broke this formidable partnership by dismissing Saud Shakeel.

Even Rizwan got out within no time. Nonetheless, a 64-run partnership between Mohammed Nawaz (39) and Shadab Khan (32) ensured Pakistan reached a competitive total. Meanwhile, the Netherlands also impressed with their bowling, limiting Pakistan to 286 runs in 49 overs, with Bas de Leede (4/62) playing a significant role for the Dutch.

The Netherlands appeared confident in their pursuit of this target but faced consistent setbacks in the form of regular wicket losses. Pakistan's bowlers effectively controlled the run rate while taking wickets at regular intervals.

Opener Vikramjeet Singh (52) and Bas de Leede (67) laid a solid foundation with a 70-run partnership, each scoring a half-century in the process. Unfortunately, no other Netherlands batsman managed to stand firm, and once Vikramjeet and Bas de Leede were dismissed, wickets tumbled rapidly.

Rising pressure from the increasing required run rate took its toll on the Dutch batters, and they were soon out of contention. Ultimately, the Netherlands could only muster a total of 205 runs in 41 overs. Harish Rauf claimed three wickets, and Hasan Ali took two for Pakistan.

Despite losing the game, the Netherlands gained admirers with their competitive spirit. They have the potential to surprise some of the top teams in future games.

The Netherlands will next face New Zealand on October 9. On the flip side, Pakistan will play against Sri Lanka on October 10. Both matches will be held in Hyderabad.

Scorecard:

Pakistan: 286/10 (49 overs)

Netherlands: 205/10 (41 overs)