After a stuttering start to their campaign, the Netherlands found their rhythm at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, cruising to a seven-wicket victory over Namibia. On a day where the "Oranje" needed a hero to steady the ship, Bas de Leede delivered an all-round masterclass, proving why he is considered one of the most versatile players in Associate cricket.
Namibia’s debut started with a mix of composure and nerves. After the early loss of Louren Steenkamp, Jan Frylinck and Nicol Loftie-Eaton stabilized the innings. Loftie-Eaton was particularly impressive, striking several boundaries to keep the run rate healthy.
Middle-order push: Captain Gerhard Erasmus and JJ Smit injected much-needed urgency. Erasmus targeted Timm van der Gugten in the 12th over, while Smit cleared the ropes twice against Roelof van der Merwe.
Dutch fightback: Just as Namibia looked set for 170+, Bas de Leede and Logan van Beek applied the brakes. De Leede’s double-strike in the middle overs removed the dangerous Erasmus and Smit, while Van Beek’s variations accounted for the set batters.
Final score: Namibia finished on 154/8, a total that felt 10-15 runs short of a "safe" score on a true Delhi surface.
Despite losing Max O'Dowd early to a sharp catch by Erasmus off Bernard Scholtz, the Dutch never looked panicked.
Levitt’s Cameo: Michael Levitt provided the early spark, launching Ruben Trumpelmann for a massive six before falling for a brisk start.
Winning partnership: Bas de Leede joined Colin Ackermann, and the duo effectively killed the contest. De Leede was particularly brutal against the spinners, slog-sweeping Nicol Loftie-Eaton and Gerhard Erasmus with disdain.
Finish: After Ackermann fell in the 14th over, captain Scott Edwards joined De Leede. The pair navigated the final overs with ease, with De Leede finishing unbeaten on 72 (48 balls)*, sealing the win with a boundary in the 18th over.
It was the quintessential "Bas de Leede game." He was involved in almost every pivotal moment:
With the Ball: Broke the back of Namibia’s middle order with two crucial wickets.
With the Bat: Scored a majestic 72* to ensure the chase remained a formality.
In the Field: Active and influential in the death overs.
