Netherlands vs Nepal: ICC CWC League 2 Match Preview
Match Overview
The Netherlands is set to face Nepal in the 75th match of the ICC CWC League 2. This exciting encounter will take place at Forthill, Dundee, on June 4, starting at 03:30 PM IST.
Netherlands Team Update
The Dutch team enters this match with a solid track record, although they recently suffered a significant defeat against Scotland by 145 runs. Chasing a daunting target of 381, they were dismissed for just 235 runs. Currently, they hold the second position in the ICC CWC League 2 standings, and a victory against Nepal could propel them to the top.
Nepal's Performance
In contrast, Nepal has struggled throughout the tournament, managing only 3 wins out of 13 matches, placing them seventh in the points table. However, their recent thrilling victory over Scotland by 1 wicket would have boosted their morale. Chasing a target of 297, they clinched the win in the final over, thanks to Karan KC's impressive unbeaten 65 runs off 41 balls.
Pitch Conditions
The pitch at Forthill is known for providing a balanced contest between bat and ball. Historically, the average first innings score is around 206, dropping to 180 in the second innings, indicating a challenging batting surface. Fast bowlers and traditional bowlers are expected to find assistance here. Rain is forecasted for the match day, which could further favor the bowlers.
Head-to-Head Record
| NED vs NEP Head-to-Head | |
| Matches Played | 5 |
| Won by Netherlands | 3 |
| Won by Nepal | 2 |
| No Result | 0 |
| Tied | 0 |
Probable Lineups
Netherlands: Teja Nidamanuru, Max O'Dowd, Michael Levitt, Scott Edwards (c & wk), Noah Cross, Zach Lion Cachet, Fred Klaassen, Roelof van der Merwe, Paul van Meekeren, Kyle Klein, Bas de Leede.
Nepal: Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Rohit Paudel (c), Aarif Sheikh, Rijan Dhakal, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, Bhim Sharki.
Key Players to Watch
Top Wicketkeeper
- Scott Edwards | NED: A vital player for the Netherlands, Edwards has amassed 529 runs in 17 matches during the CWC League 2 phase. His recent performance includes a notable 70 runs against Scotland, making him a key player for fantasy teams.
Top Batters
- Max O'Dowd | NED: O'Dowd has been in excellent form, scoring 668 runs in 18 matches. His recent scores of 16, 52, and 64 indicate he is in good touch.
- Gulshan Jha | NEP: Jha has been a standout performer for Nepal, scoring 208 runs in 9 matches, including a half-century. He will be crucial for Nepal's batting lineup.
Top All-Rounders
- Michael Levitt | NED: Levitt has excelled as an all-rounder, scoring 336 runs and taking two wickets in 13 matches. He is expected to contribute significantly in this match.
- Kushal Bhurtel | NEP: Bhurtel has been instrumental for Nepal, scoring 231 runs and taking 12 wickets in 10 matches. His all-round capabilities make him a valuable asset for fantasy teams.
Top Bowlers
- Kyle Klein | NED: Klein has been effective in the middle overs, taking 32 wickets in 14 matches. His pace and bounce will be crucial against Nepal.
- Sompal Kami | NEP: Kami has been a consistent wicket-taker for Nepal, with 14 wickets in 10 matches, including two in the last game against Scotland.