PAK vs NED Review – Pakistan overcome Bas de Leede’s heroics

In the second match of the ODI World Cup 2023, Pakistan clashed with the Netherlands in Hyderabad and emerged victorious by 81 runs. The Netherlands, after winning the toss, decided to field first and their bowlers proved the decision right as Pakistan’s top order was rattled early, with three key wickets, including Captain Babar Azam.

However, the resilient partnership of Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan put Pakistan back on track, stitching together a commendable 120-run stand. Both Rizwan and Saud contributed with identical scores of 68 runs each. As the partnership was eventually broken, Pakistan struggled to maintain momentum and were all out for 286 in 49 overs, with Bas de Leede’s impressive four-wicket haul proving pivotal for the Netherlands.

In reply, the Dutch team showed promise early on with opener Vikramjit Singh notching up a fifty. But the pressure mounted, leading to a steady fall of wickets. De Leede fought valiantly, scoring 67 runs, while Vikramjit posted 52. Nonetheless, the Netherlands fell short by 81 runs, marking a victorious start to Pakistan’s World Cup campaign.

Top Performers of the Match

Best Batter

Saud Shakeel (68 of 52 balls)

The Pakistani team found themselves in trouble early on in the match, losing three wickets within the powerplay. However, Saud played a crucial role in stabilizing the Pakistani innings. He effortlessly dominated the Netherlands bowlers, scoring an impressive 68 runs, including nine fours and one six.

Best Bowler

Bas de Leede (4/62, 9 overs)

On the other hand, Bas de Leede emerged as the standout bowler of the match. With a partnership between Rizwan and Saud, it seemed like Pakistan would score over 300 runs. However, de Leede stepped up and dismantled the Pakistani middle order and emerged as the best bowler of the match.

What next?

Looking ahead, Pakistan will face India on October 14, while the Netherlands will take on New Zealand on October 9.