Netherlands Post 147 After Spirited Start, Pakistan Bowlers Strike Back in Colombo

Batting first, the Netherlands were bowled out for 147 in 19.5 overs after a promising start that failed to convert into a big total. Michael Levitt provided early momentum with a brisk 24 off 15 balls, but regular wickets prevented the visitors from building sustained partnerships. Bas de Leede anchored briefly with 30 from 25 deliveries, while captain Scott Edwards top-scored with a fighting 37 off 29 balls, keeping the innings together through the middle overs.

Pakistan’s bowlers tightened the screws after the Powerplay, where the Netherlands reached 50 for 2. Abrar Ahmed was outstanding in the middle phase, claiming two crucial wickets for 23 runs and breaking the backbone of the innings. Salman Mirza also impressed, finishing with three wickets, including two in the death overs. Mohammad Nawaz chipped in with two wickets, while Saim Ayub delivered a surprise double strike.

Despite crossing 100 by the 13th over, the Netherlands lost six wickets for 42 runs, collapsing from 105 for 4 to 147 all out, giving Pakistan a clear target heading into the chase.