In a momentous breakthrough for Dutch cricket, the Netherlands Women’s team has qualified for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup for the first time in history, booking their place in the 12-team tournament scheduled in England this June–July. Their historic qualification came through a brilliant run in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier 2026 in Nepal, where the Oranje were among the standout teams.
The Netherlands spearheaded Group B and advanced through the Super Sixes stage with consistency and clutch performances, eventually sealing their place alongside Bangladesh — the two sides to qualify directly from the Super Sixes stage.
The Dutch campaign was built on all-round excellence. In their opening qualifier match against Zimbabwe, the Netherlands posted 122 and defended it successfully, winning by 22 runs as Zimbabwe were restricted to 100/8. They backed it up with a strong batting display against Scotland, scoring 157/6 with Sterre Kalis smashing an unbeaten 87 off 60 balls — an innings filled with 14 fours and a six that helped secure a 7-run victory.
Their ability to grind out wins was again evident on 22 January in a thrilling battle against hosts Nepal. Electing to bat first, the Netherlands posted a competitive 140/5 in their 20 overs, anchored by captain Babette de Leede’s 49 off 47 balls, supported by Sterre Kalis’s 30. Despite a spirited chase from Nepal — who finished 138/7, the Dutch held their nerve, winning by just 2 runs in one of the qualifier’s closest contests.
Dutch bowling was pivotal throughout the campaign. Isabel van der Woning was the standout bowler against Nepal, finishing with impressive figures of 3/16, while Silver Siegers and Heather Siegers made crucial breakthroughs at various stages. Isabel van der Woning again starred and was named Player of the Match for her bowling effort against Thailand.
Throughout the tournament, the Dutch unit demonstrated balance across batting and bowling, from experienced campaigners like de Leede and Kalis to impactful performers like van der Woning and the Siegers sisters.
In the Super Six matches, the Netherlands continued their winning momentum. A notable result saw them secure a win over the United States Women, a match affected by rain and decided via the DLS method, where a strong Dutch start with Phebe Molkenboer’s 46 helped set up a 21-run victory. By topping Group B and retaining an undefeated streak through key games, the Netherlands secured their historic berth in the global tournament.
This milestone is a testament to the growth of Dutch women’s cricket. It reflects years of dedication, investment in youth development, and a strong team ethos that has helped them compete with more established sides. Qualifying for a Women’s T20 World Cup for the first time ever and doing so with winning performances across multiple matches marks a transformational moment for the sport in the Netherlands.
As the team now prepares for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England, they will take confidence from strong form, meaningful contributions from a range of players, and belief that they belong on cricket’s biggest stage.
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