The Dutch cricket team is gearing up for the upcoming ICC World Cup in India, marking their return to the 50-over format on the world stage after more than a decade. The Royal Dutch Cricket Federation (KNCB) has named a 15-member squad that includes both familiar faces and promising debutants.
Return of Key Players
Among the notable inclusions in the squad are Roelof van der Merwe, Paul van Meekeren, Colin Ackermann, and the exciting prospect Sybrand Engelbrecht, who is in line to make his debut for the Dutch team. These players bring a wealth of experience and skill to the side.
While Scott Edwards will continue to captain the team and handle wicketkeeping duties, the core of the squad that finished as runners-up in the World Cup Qualifier has been retained. This continuity should provide stability and familiarity as the team prepares for the global competition.
Netherlands Squad
Here is the complete squad for the ICC World Cup:
– Scott Edwards (Captain)
– Max O’Dowd
– Vikram Singh
– Sybrand Engelbrecht
– Wesley Barresi
– Colin Ackermann
– Bas de Leede
– Teja Nidamanuru
– Roelof van der Merwe
– Logan van Beek
– Saqib Zulfiqar
– Shariz Ahmad
– Ryan Klein
– Aryan Dutt
– Paul van Meekeren
Sybrand Engelbrecht’s Journey
One of the most intriguing stories in this squad is that of Sybrand Engelbrecht. Engelbrecht, a former Cape Cobras batsman, represented South Africa in the 2008 Under-19 World Cup. However, he recently became eligible to play for the Netherlands after residing and playing cricket there for several years. His journey in Dutch cricket began with HBS Craeyenhout in 2015 and has now culminated with Voorburg CC, whom he led to the national championship this season.
The Return of Key Absentees
The Dutch squad also welcomes back some key players who were absent during the World Cup Qualifier due to their county commitments. Paul van Meekeren, who plies his trade for Somerset, Colin Ackermann of Leicestershire, and Roelof van der Merwe, who represents Gloucestershire, are expected to join the team in India. Their international experience and skills will undoubtedly bolster the Dutch side.
Durham’s Bas de Leede, who played a vital role in the team’s qualification, will also be rejoining the squad in India.
Notable Absences
While the Dutch team welcomes back several stars, some players will miss out on the World Cup campaign. Timm van der Gugten of Glamorgan has made himself unavailable due to family commitments, and Kent’s Fred Klaassen remains sidelined with a stress fracture. Shane Snater from Essex and Brandon Glover from Durham also miss the cut.
Talking about the team
Speaking about the integration of returning players into the squad, the Dutch coach emphasized the strong bond and unity within the team. Even during their absence, these players remained closely connected to the group, sharing videos and contributing to the team culture.
Sybrand Engelbrecht’s inclusion is seen as a positive move to broaden the player pool. He has performed consistently for his club in the Netherlands and impressed with his performances for the A side against Guernsey.
