Dutch women bounce back strongly with convincing victory over Namibia
Published at 26 November, 2025The Dutch women's team convincingly defeated Namibia at the ICC Emerging Nations Trophy. After a fine innings (164/6), their bowling and fielding were also good enough: Namibia were bowled out for 113 in 16.2 overs.
In the lead-up to the T20 World Cup qualifying tournament in January, the Dutch women's team is experimenting extensively this week at the ENT in Thailand. Against Namibia, for example, Iris Zwilling opened the innings to put a bit more pressure on the opposition in the Powerplay. This tactical move had the desired effect, as Zwilling started with two boundaries in the first over. Phebe Molkenboer also looked positive with two early fours.
The score was 38/1/5.3 with Zwilling (18) caught at cow corner. After the Powerplay the score was 43/1. Molkenboer (17) was given run out (43/2).
Sterre Kalis (47) and Babette de Leede (38) brought the score to a promising 76/2/10 with superb shots. The experienced pair made a partnership of 73 runs for the third wicket. The score reached 114/3 after a bizarre run out. Robine Rijke – a fine cameo of 21 from just nine balls – brought the Dutch total to 164/6.
From the outset, it was clear that Namibia would be going for the win on the excellent pitch; 33/1/4 was a promising start. Yasmeen Khan went after the Dutch attack. Van Zyl only needed give Khan the strike, but instead found the safe hands of Lara Leemhuis at mid-off (54/2). Frédérique Overdijk wasn't finished yet, as she took two more wickets in the same over, including that of Yasmeen Khan (41 off 15) – talk about a momentum shift.
At the halfway point of the innings, the score was 74/6. Dutch spinners Frédérique Overdijk (4-18) and Caroline de Lange (3-11) didn't let Namibia get back into the game. The Africans were all out for 113 after 16.3 overs.
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