The Dutch have forced everyone to take note of their trajectory in this World Cup. They created history with an unprecedented victory against South Africa. Dharamshala became their hunting ground where they showed everyone what they can do on the cricket field. Against Sri Lanka as well they were impressive but could not breach the Lankan batting order with their bowling. Now they will be facing the mighty Aussies in Delhi. Delhi has already witnessed a giant upset when Afghanistan took down the defending champions England and the Dutch have an opportunity to create history once again.
Let’s take a look at the probable Netherlands’ Playing XI against Australia:
Top Order
The Dutch top order as a unit has not contributed much. There have been individual contributions but as a whole, they have not impressed much. Openers Max O’Dowd and Vikramjit Singh have not had a good tournament so far. The Dutch will continue to stick with this opening pair but this pair must favour the management back with some good performances.
Colin Ackerman, in the top order, is having a comparatively better tournament. He has got one fifty-plus score but if the Netherlands want to challenge the Aussies, then they would need better contributions from Ackerman.
Middle Order
The middle order has been a highlight for the Netherlands. This middle order rescued their side against a formidable South African bowling lineup. Captain Scott Edwards and Sybrand Engelbrecht have made remarkable contributions in this World Cup. Along with Logan Van Beek in the lower middle order, they form a competitive core.
Teja Nidamanuru is another vital player in this middle order but his contributions have not been up to par. He will have to score some runs against Australia otherwise the management would be tempted to look for alternatives.
All-rounder Bas De Leede came into this tournament with a lot of anticipation and his role in the middle order is significant. De Leede will be eager to live up to the expectations.
Bowling Unit
The Dutch bowling lineup delivered a miraculous performance against South Africa to complete a massive upset but their performance against Sri Lanka would force them to go back to the drawing board. Logan Van Beek, Paul Van Meekeren, and Bas De Leede would be assuming fast-bowling responsibilities and a lot would depend on Paul Van Meekeren, who is the prime speedster in this attack. Aryan Dutt and Roelof Van Der Merwe form an interesting spin duo. They have been performing really well in this World Cup and they would be hoping to turn up against Australia as well.
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