Historic Day: Netherlands and Bangladesh Secure T20 World Cup 2026 Berths in Dominant Fashion

Day 5 of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 Global Qualifier delivered historic moments as two teams punched their tickets to the marquee event scheduled for June. The Netherlands created cricketing history by qualifying for a Women's World Cup for the first time in 25 years, while Bangladesh maintained their flawless campaign with a fifth consecutive victory.

Netherlands End 25-Year World Cup Drought

Recommended•Women's T20 World Cup 2026

Netherlands, Bangladesh qualify for Women's T20 World Cup 2026

Read Article 1 min read

In what will be remembered as a landmark moment for Dutch cricket, the Netherlands secured qualification for the Women's T20 World Cup with a commanding 21-run victory over the USA via the DLS method.

Bowling Sets the Foundation

Asked to field first, the Dutch bowlers executed their plans to perfection, never allowing the American batting lineup to find rhythm. Heather Sigers was instrumental at the top with her economical spell of 1-19, keeping the dangerous USA top order under wraps. Medium pacer Hannah Landheer proved decisive in the death overs, claiming three crucial wickets for 30 runs to restrict the USA to a modest 129 for seven.

USA's Resistance Falls Short

For the USA, only Gargi Bhogle (36) and Isani Vaghela (32*) showed any meaningful resistance against the disciplined Dutch attack. The lack of partnerships proved costly as wickets fell at regular intervals throughout the innings.

Recommended•Fred Klaassen

Kent seamer Klaassen signs new two-year deal

Read Article 1 min read

Molkenboer Leads the Chase

Phebe Molkenboer anchored the Dutch response with a composed unbeaten 46. Though rain interrupted proceedings with the Netherlands on 90 for two after 12 overs, they were comfortably ahead on DLS calculations, securing the historic victory.

This triumph marks the Netherlands' first qualification for a women's World Cup in any format since 2000—a quarter-century wait that ended in jubilant celebrations.

Bangladesh Extend Perfect Record Against Thailand

Bangladesh showcased their credentials as tournament favourites with a comprehensive 39-run victory over a spirited Thailand side, maintaining their unblemished record in the Super Six stage.

Magnificent Partnership Anchors Innings

The Tigers' batting display was headlined by an outstanding 110-run partnership for the third wicket between Sobhana Mostary and Juairiya Ferdous. Mostary was the aggressor with a sublime 59 off 42 deliveries, while Ferdous provided excellent support with 56 off 45 balls. Their alliance propelled Bangladesh to an imposing 165/8 from their 20 overs.

Bowlers Complete the Job

Bangladesh's bowling unit worked in tandem to defend the target, with wickets shared across the attack. Despite Thailand's brave resistance, they could only manage 126/8, falling 39 runs short of the target.

With five wins from five matches, Bangladesh have confirmed their place at the main event and will be among the teams to watch in June.

Scotland Boost Qualification Hopes Against Ireland

In the day's opening encounter, Scotland delivered a statement performance with a 39-run victory over Celtic rivals Ireland, significantly enhancing their World Cup qualification aspirations.

Bryce Sisters Shine for Scotland

Sarah Bryce anchored the Scottish innings with an impressive 47 off 31 balls, playing the key role in posting a challenging total of 160/5. Multiple contributions throughout the lineup ensured Scotland set a target that ultimately proved beyond Ireland's reach.

With the ball, Kathryn Bryce was simply sensational. Her figures of 4/21 dismantled the Irish batting order, keeping dangerous batters in check throughout the innings. Captain Gaby Lewis fought valiantly with 41 off 37 balls, but found little support from her teammates as Ireland were bowled out for 121 in their final over.

Super Six Standings and Path Forward

With eight points each, Bangladesh and the Netherlands sit atop the Super Six table as the only confirmed qualifiers. Scotland, Ireland, USA, and Thailand remain locked in an intense battle for the remaining two spots at the T20 World Cup.

Upcoming Fixtures

The qualification race intensifies with crucial matches ahead:

January 30:

• Bangladesh v Scotland (Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, 09:00 local)
• Ireland v Netherlands (Upper Mulpani Cricket Ground, 09:00 local)
• USA v Thailand (Upper Mulpani Cricket Ground, 13:00 local)

February 1:

• Ireland v Thailand (Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, 09:00 local)
• Bangladesh v Netherlands (Upper Mulpani Cricket Ground, 09:00 local)
• Scotland v USA (Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, 13:00 local)

Looking Ahead

The Netherlands will carry immense momentum into their clash against Ireland, while Bangladesh face a determined Scotland side seeking to continue their resurgence. For Thailand and the USA, every remaining match is effectively a must-win scenario.

The final two qualification spots promise dramatic finishes as four teams battle for their World Cup dreams over the coming days. With Ireland facing both qualified teams and Scotland meeting the unbeaten Bangladeshis, the permutations will keep fans on the edge of their seats until the final ball is bowled.