3 biggest positives for the Netherlands from their ODI World Cup 2023 campaign

The unknown boys of Dutch cricket have made a special place for themselves in the hearts of millions of cricket fans around the globe. This World Cup campaign has shown them that they can pull off wonders on a stage like the World Cup. The Netherlands took down South Africa, which is looking like a prime contender for the World Cup, and Bangladesh. The Dutch team played with an impenetrable will to fight till the last ball which has been applauded by pundits and fans. With minimal resources, they have traveled so far and this World Cup campaign will serve as an inspiration for their further journey as an emerging cricketing nation. Let’s take a look at the top 3 positives for them from their World Cup campaign. 

A Strong Leader

The biggest positive for Dutch cricket from this World Cup has been their captain, Scott Edwards. Edwards has led the Dutch team with unwavering composure and resolve. In adverse situations, he was always present for his team. Not just with the bat but also with his leadership, he guided his side in this World Cup. Against South Africa, he led his team to a famous victory with a brilliant performance and exemplary leadership. In the times to come his leadership will be very vital for the Netherlands. This is a great start for the Netherlands but a lot would count on Scott Edwards as to how he navigates the way forward for Dutch cricket. 

Experience of the grandest stage

With this World Cup campaign, they have garnered the experience of playing cricket at the biggest stage of World Cricket, the ODI World Cup. Competing in the biggest tournament of world cricket in a country that is crazy for this game must have played a huge role in the evolution of Dutch players into much better cricketers. From here onwards the intimidation factor would mostly vanish and they would be able to express their game with much more vigour. Next year they will be taking part in the T20 World Cup and that would be a great stage for them to do wonders in the shortest format of the game and build on the gains that they have achieved from this World Cup. 

Recognition – A treasure for the future

With the performance that this Dutch team has delivered in this World Cup, they have attracted millions of eyeballs and this recognition will play a huge role in serving their cricket in the future. Cricket fans across the globe have witnessed their skill and passion to play this game and these fans will play a huge part in their evolution as they will make the apex cricket council accountable for the development of Dutch cricket. Now the apex cricket council has an added responsibility to cater to the evolution of Dutch cricket and assist them in their journey of becoming a cricketing nation.