Sri Lanka clinch World Cup Qualifier tournament with dominant victory over Netherlands | Cricket News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Sri Lanka emerged victorious in a one-sided final of the World Cup qualifier tournament in Harare, crushing the Netherlands by 128 runs. The Dutch, who displayed a commendable bowling performance to restrict Sri Lanka to 233 all out, faltered in their chase, collapsing to a meagre total of 105 runs in just over 23 overs.
Winning the toss, Dutch captain Scott Edwards opted to bowl first, a decision that initially seemed fruitful as his team managed to dismiss the Sri Lankans for 233 within 48 overs. Dilshan Madushanka was the standout performer, taking three wickets and contributing significantly to the Dutch’s success.

However, the Netherlands’ hopes quickly diminished as they found themselves struggling at 39/3, with Dilshan Madushanka claiming three crucial wickets. Their batting lineup collapsed, and they were eventually bowled out for a mere 105 runs.
While fielding, the Dutch team had displayed promising performances. Bas de Leede, who played a pivotal role in the victory over Scotland that secured their World Cup qualification, was absent from the final as he had returned to his English county club, Durham.

During Sri Lanka’s innings, Vikramjit Singh made an impact by dismissing both Sri Lankan openers, including the in-form Pathum Nissanka, whose aspirations of achieving a third successive century were halted as he departed for 23 runs, caught by Aryan Dutt.
Sahan Arahchige’s impressive knock of 57, supported by notable contributions from wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis (43) and Charith Asalanka (36), formed the backbone of Sri Lanka’s total.

The game-changing moment came when Dilshan Madushanka unleashed a devastating spell of bowling, leaving the Dutch reeling. Opening batsman Max O’Dowd watched as his partners fell at regular intervals, unable to provide substantial support. O’Dowd fought valiantly, scoring a gritty 33 off 63 balls, but was eventually clean bowled by Maheesh Theekshana, who finished with remarkable figures of 4-31 and cleaned up the tail.
Sri Lanka’s dominant victory secured their triumph in the World Cup qualifier tournament, earning them a coveted spot in the prestigious World Cup. They showcased their prowess with both bat and ball, overpowering the Netherlands in a one-sided final.
(With inputs from AFP)