The Netherlands has announced a 15-member squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 matches in Namibia from March 5 to 13. They will play two ODIs against Namibia and two against Canada at the Wanderers Sports Club. Coach Ryan Cook highlighted the extensive preparation the team has undergone, emphasizing the need for victories to qualify for the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup.
The Netherlands has officially announced their 15-member squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 matches scheduled in Namibia from March 5 to 13. During this tournament, they will face the host nation, Namibia, in two One Day Internationals (ODIs) on March 7 and 13, alongside two matches against Canada on March 5 and 11. All the games will be played at the Wanderers Sports Club in Windhoek, Namibia’s capital.
Among the squad, Fred Klaassen is set to return for his first 50-over game in nearly two years, while Zach Lion-Cachet is making his debut in the ODI arena. Notably absent from the squad are Brandon Glover, Shariz Ahmad, and Clayton Floyd, who participated in the Dutch bowling camp in Cape Town. Coach Ryan Cook expressed optimism about the team, saying, “We are looking forward to our first WCL2 fixtures of 2025 in Namibia.”
Ryan Cook added that the squad has undergone extensive preparation during the winter in the Netherlands and a recent camp in Cape Town, which resulted in significant improvements and readiness to confront challenges ahead. Currently, the Netherlands ranks fifth in the 2024–2026 ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 points table, achieving 14 points from 12 games with seven wins and five losses.
The team must secure several wins in Namibia to place among the top four nations, which will advance to the global qualifying tournament for the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup, co-hosted by South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. Previously, the Netherlands had participated in the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup in India after qualifying as the second-best team in Zimbabwe. They finished the tournament with two wins—including a notable win against South Africa—and seven losses.
In conclusion, the Netherlands has geared up for the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 tournament in Namibia with a well-balanced squad. The team’s performance in these matches will be critical for their chances of qualifying for the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup. With experienced players and promising newcomers, the preparation and strategic approach will be crucial in achieving success during this competition.
Original Source: www.cricketnmore.com
