T20 World Cup: Netherlands end Zimbabwe's hopes of reaching semi-finals with win in Adelaide
- Planet Sport writer
- 2 November 2022
A half-century from Max O'Dowd helped the Netherlands seal a memorable five-wicket victory over Zimbabwe, ensuring his side will bow out of the T20 World Cup with points and pride safely secured.
The win in a low-scoring outing at the Adelaide Oval represented a third full-member scalp for the Dutch in the tournament, following famous results over England in 2009 and 2014.
Zimbabwe batted carelessly as they were rounded up for a total of 117, including eight dismissals in single figures.
Only the reliably impressive Sikandar Raza, who made 40 in 24 deliveries, and Sean Williams (28 from 23) showed any form of resolve, though their efforts were never going to be enough without support.
Paul van Meekeren enjoyed himself, claiming 3-29, while Logan van Beek, Brandon Glover and Bas de Leede each claimed two wickets apiece.
The chase always looked safe, with early boundaries from the top order more than making up for Stephan Myburgh's departure in the powerplay.
O'Dowd and Tom Cooper led the way, putting on 73 for the second wicket.
The former saw it through until the end was in sight, reaching a half-century in 45 balls, but fell as a mini-revival came too late for the Zimbabwe attack.
They took 4-26 at the close but could not prevent the Netherlands easing home with two overs remaining.
The Netherlands complete their Super 12 campaign against South Africa in Adelaide on Sunday, while Zimbabwe, whose semi-final hopes are all but over, face India in Melbourne.
