The Netherlands takes seven Australian wickets; hat-trick Aussie Starc
Published at 02 October, 2023The first official warm-up match prior to the World Cup did not have a result. Rain caused a substantial postponement of Australia vs The Netherlands. When it was possible to play, only 23 overs remained. For Australia that is, because with the Netherlands on 84/6 in 14.2 overs it was raining heavily again. After that, the match was abandoned.
The start for the Netherlands was excellent when Logan van Beek bowled Josh Inglis for a duck. Steve Smith and Alex Carey seemingly effortlessly made a partnership 57 for the second wicket. However, before the accelerator was pressed too deep, Van der Merwe Carey bowled for 28. Glenn Maxwell (5) got a rush of blood facing Shariz Ahmad and paid the price: 66/3. Only world number 16 Smith (55) managed a half century before being stumped by Edwards. Debutant Sybrand Engelbrecht picked up his first ODI catch. 166/7 was the final score thanks to a good final over from Paul van Meekeren. The numbers of the cunning Roelof van der Merwe (2-12 in three overs) reflected his class. Van Beek and De Leede also took two wickets each.
Netherlands innings
The Netherlands did well against opponents such as Zimbabwe and Scotland in July, but a world-class attack turned out to be a different story. Mitchell Starc bowled three absolute beauties to O'Dowd (LBW), Barresi and De Leede (both bowled) and took a hat-trick (12/3). Ackermann (31 not out) and Scott Edwards (14 out of ten balls) were able to cope with the strong Australian attack before torrential rains ended the match.
On Tuesday 3 October, the Dutch team will play its second warm-up game, at 10.30 Dutch time against India. The match can be followed live via YuppTV. For around €25 euros you can buy a package for the entire Cricket World Cup 2023. If you have a smart TV, you can connect your smartphone to your TV.
