The Dutch make themselves known in European T10 team
Published at 22 February, 2025The combined British/Irish team got off to a smooth start on Friday, but two catches by Sikander Zulfiqar and two by Noah Croes slowed down the advance somewhat. Kevin O'Brien (64 off 24 balls) was simply dropped on 39 and 41, bringing the islanders back into the match. Partly thanks to 1-13 from Sikander Zulfiqar, the scoreboard remained at 188/5.
After 1.1 overs, Europe had already lost three wickets. Fayaz Khan (31 off 11) and Sikander Zulfiqar (39 off 13) secured a lightning-fast partnership, but their efforts were insufficient to come close to the target; 138 all out did result in a 'consolation point'. Davidson took 5-25.
Recovering against World XI
Europe had to get back to work immediately after the match against B&I. Kiwi legend Ross Taylor went for a duck and his teammates didn't have their day either. 80 all out was the paltry result. The left-handed seamer Muhammad Atif took 4-9 for Europe.
In addition to strength, Max O'Dowd also has fast hands. He demonstrated that against the World XI with 50 not out off fourteen balls. In 3.5 overs (!) it was 83/1 and the win was a fact.
Asia third opponent
The Asian team was the third and final opponent of Friday. 145/7 for the European team was a bit under par whilst Shahid Afridi made 51 not out.
The dangerous Ahmadzai was dropped on the first ball, but gave a second chance a ball later. Saleem Dar (2-12 including a wicket maiden!) bowled brilliantly and when Sikander took a superb catch at long on, it was 23/3. A catch by O'Dowd and a direct hit by Shariz made Asian gains almost impossible; 44 required from the last two overs. However, 23 runs from the ninth didn't help Europe. Manan (80) seemed to finish the job but was given LBW on the penultimate ball. Europe won the spectacular duel by five runs.
Photo credit ECN Diana Oros
