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Key Takeaways

1🏏 Sterre Kalis's unbeaten 87 off 60 balls, including 14 fours, was the match-winning performance for the Netherlands
2🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Scotland's chase fell short despite strong contributions from Katherine Fraser (41), Kathryn Bryce (42), and Sarah Bryce (30)
3🎯 Rachel Slater's 3-24 was the best bowling performance of the match for Scotland
4📊 Netherlands and Thailand lead Group B with two wins from two matches each
5📅 Scotland face Zimbabwe next on Thursday in a must-win situation to keep their qualifier hopes alive
6🔥 The final over drama saw Scotland needing 11 runs but managing only three singles

"Scotland get off to a losing start at the Women's T20 World Cup Global Qualifier, with a score of 87 not out from Sterre Kalis leading the Netherlands to a seven-run victory in Nepal."

Sterre Kalis Smashes Unbeaten 87 as Netherlands Edge Scotland in Thrilling T20 World Cup Qualifier Clash

In a pulsating encounter at the Women's T20 World Cup Global Qualifier in Nepal, the Netherlands secured a hard-fought seven-run victory over Scotland, powered by a magnificent unbeaten 87 from Sterre Kalis.

Match Overview

The Netherlands posted a competitive 157-6 in their allotted 20 overs, setting Scotland a challenging target under pressure. Despite a spirited Scottish chase that saw them reach 119-3 in the 16th over, the Dutch bowling attack held their nerve in the death overs to seal a crucial victory.

Batting Performance: Kalis Steals the Show

Sterre Kalis delivered a masterclass in T20 batting, remaining unbeaten on 87 from just 60 deliveries. Her innings was studded with 14 boundaries, showcasing her ability to find gaps and dominate the Scottish bowling attack. Kalis's knock formed the backbone of the Dutch innings and proved to be the decisive factor in the match outcome.

Supporting contributions came from Heather Siegers and captain Babbette de Leede, who each chipped in with 18 runs to bolster the total.

Scotland's Chase: So Close Yet So Far

Scotland's response was spirited, with their top order laying a solid foundation. Katherine Fraser struck a swift 41, while captain Kathryn Bryce led from the front with 42. Sarah Bryce added a valuable 30 before falling in the 18th over.

With the match delicately poised, four byes and a maximum from Megan McCall in the penultimate over kept Scottish hopes alive. However, McCall's dismissal from the very next delivery shifted momentum back to the Dutch.

Needing 11 runs from the final over, Ailsa Lister and Priyanaz Chatterji faced Silver Siegers but could only manage three singles, leaving Scotland agonisingly short at 150-5.

Bowling Performance: Slater Shines for Scotland

Rachel Slater was the standout performer with the ball for Scotland, claiming 3-24 to restrict the Dutch scoring in patches. For the Netherlands, Eva de Lange was the most economical bowler, finishing with figures of 2-27.

Captain's Corner: De Leede Leads from the Front

Dutch captain Babbette de Leede contributed both with the bat and through astute captaincy, managing her bowling resources effectively during Scotland's threatening chase. Her decision to bowl Silver Siegers in the final over proved decisive.

Tournament Standings and Future Outlook

With this victory, the Netherlands move to the top of Group B alongside Thailand, with both nations boasting two wins from two matches. Both teams have overcome Zimbabwe, who Scotland will face next on Thursday.

For Scotland, this opening defeat means they must regroup quickly. Their chase demonstrated they have the batting firepower to compete, but converting promising positions into victories will be crucial if they are to progress in the tournament.

The Netherlands, meanwhile, will be buoyed by Kalis's form and their composure under pressure, making them a team to watch as the qualifier progresses.