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Key Takeaways
- 1🏆 Netherlands qualify for their first-ever Women's T20 World Cup, marking a historic milestone for Dutch cricket
- 2🇧🇩 Bangladesh continue their unbeaten run in qualifiers, securing their spot with a comprehensive 39-run victory over Thailand
- 3⭐ Juairiya Ferdous and Sobhana Mostary's 110-run partnership proved decisive in Bangladesh's qualification match
- 4🌧️ Netherlands secured victory via DLS method after rain interruption, with Phebe Molkenboer's unbeaten 46 anchoring the chase
- 5📈 The 2026 Women's T20 World Cup in England will feature 12 teams for the first time in tournament history
- 6🔥 Scotland, Ireland, USA, and Thailand now compete for the final two qualification spots from the Super Six stage
"This will be Netherlands' first time at the tournament, while Bangladesh have featured since 2014"
Historic Moment: Netherlands Qualify for First-Ever Women's T20 World Cup as Bangladesh Cruise Through
In a landmark day for women's cricket, Netherlands have achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for their first-ever Women's T20 World Cup, while Bangladesh continued their dominant run to secure their place at the 2026 edition in England.
Both teams delivered commanding performances at the qualifying tournament in Nepal, cementing their spots in what will be an expanded 12-team tournament—the largest in the competition's history.
Bangladesh Overcome Early Wobble Against Thailand
Batting Performance
Bangladesh's journey to qualification hit an early snag when Thailand won the toss and inserted them to bat at Mulpani. The decision seemed inspired when opener Dilara Akter fell on the very first ball, followed swiftly by Sharmin Akhter in the second over.
However, the experienced duo of wicketkeeper-batter Juairiya Ferdous and Sobhana Mostary orchestrated a remarkable recovery. The pair constructed a match-defining 110-run partnership for the third wicket, wresting momentum back in Bangladesh's favor.
Ferdous contributed a composed 56 off 45 deliveries, while Mostary was equally impressive with 59 runs from 42 balls. Despite another wobble after both fell in quick succession, Bangladesh posted a competitive 165 for 8.
Bowling Excellence
With a solid total on the board, Bangladesh's bowlers completed the job with clinical precision. Fast bowler Marufa Akter was the standout performer, claiming 3 for 25 with her pace and accuracy. Ritu Moni and Shorna Akter provided excellent support with two wickets apiece, as Thailand were bowled out 39 runs short of the target.
Netherlands Create History at Kirtipur
Bowling Restricts USA
Netherlands' historic qualification came via a convincing victory over USA at Kirtipur. The Dutch bowling attack set the tone early, restricting the Americans to 129 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs.
Hannah Landheer was the pick of the bowlers with impressive figures of 3 for 30, while Caroline de Lange provided valuable support with 2 for 27. The disciplined bowling effort gave Netherlands a manageable target to chase.
Dynamic Batting Display
The Netherlands reply was both aggressive and efficient. Heather Siegers set the tone with a blistering 28 off just 12 balls, immediately putting pressure on the USA bowling attack.
Phebe Molkenboer then anchored the chase with an unbeaten 46, guiding her team to 90 for 2 when rain intervened after 12 overs. With Netherlands comfortably ahead on the DLS method, they were declared winners by 21 runs—and with it, secured their place in cricketing history.
Road to England: What Lies Ahead
The qualification of Netherlands and Bangladesh leaves four spots remaining from the Super Six stage. Scotland, Ireland, USA, and Thailand are now locked in a fierce battle for the two remaining berths.
For Bangladesh, who have been a fixture at the Women's T20 World Cup since hosting the inaugural event in 2014, this qualification represents consistency at the highest level. Their experienced squad, led by match-winners like Ferdous, Mostary, and Marufa Akter, will be eager to make an impact in England.
For Netherlands, this breakthrough moment opens a new chapter in their cricketing journey. The performances of Siegers, Molkenboer, Landheer, and de Lange suggest they have the talent to compete at the highest level.
Looking Forward
The 2026 Women's T20 World Cup in England promises to be a groundbreaking edition with 12 teams competing for the first time. The expanded format provides greater opportunities for emerging nations like Netherlands to test themselves against the world's best.
As the qualifiers continue in Nepal, all eyes will be on Scotland, Ireland, USA, and Thailand as they battle for the remaining spots. The competition has already delivered drama, history, and outstanding individual performances—setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable World Cup later this year.
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