Netherlands beat Bangladesh by 87 runs

KOLKATA: In one of the most memorable World Cups for the lower-ranked sides, Netherlands recorded its second upset win, outsmarting Bangladesh by 87 runs, and its best-ever showing to push for the game’s popularity back home on Saturday.

Captain Scott Edward’s determined half-century and Paul van Meekeren’s four-wicket haul were the highlights of a fine Dutch show that disheartened thousands of green shirts, including from those across the border, at Bangladesh’s second home – the Eden Gardens.

Batting first, Netherlands managed 229 and restricted Bangladesh to 142 on a slower track.

Dutch captain Scott Edwards (68) scored his second fifty of the tournament to rescue his side. Fine contributions from Wesley Barresi, who featured in his second World Cup after 2011, and Sybrand Engelbrecht and a cameo from Logan van Beek also helped Netherlands in posting a fighting total.

Bangladesh’s reply was utterly disappointing. While the Dutch bowlers, backed by committed fielding, executed their plans well, Bangladesh batters suffered due to their poor shot selection.

After the openers’ dismissal for 19, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (35) played an attacking knock.

But Paul van Meekeren’s three-wicket burst ensured Bangladesh’s collapse. Najmul Hossain Shanto flattered to deceive, Shakib’s special preparation was in vain and Mushfiqur Rahim’s defence was not good enough.

And de Leede removed Miraz, run out, and Mahmudullah, caught, after the duo added 38 runs off 71 balls to keep the fight going. However, Bangladesh couldn’t recover from 70 for six and experienced the humiliation of losing its fifth straight match. Agencies

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