Hyderabad: In a gripping World Cup 2023 second match in Hyderabad, the Netherlands’ star all-rounder Bas de Leede showcased his talent, but Pakistan’s improved bowling effort secured them an 81-run victory.

De Leede’s medium-pace prowess earned him four crucial wickets, restricting Pakistan to a total of 286 all out in 49 overs. During the Dutch run chase, openers Vikramjit Singh (52 off 67) and de Leede (67 off 68) held their ground, forming a promising 70-run partnership for the third wicket.

However, their dismissal marked a turning point, and the Netherlands eventually succumbed to Pakistan’s bowling prowess, being bowled out for 205 in 41 overs. Pakistan’s bowlers, who had faced criticism in warm-up games, delivered consistently in the middle overs.

Haris Rauf (3/43) made a significant impact, dismissing Teja Nidamanuru and Scott Edwards in the 27th over. Shaheen Afridi’s precision trapped Saqib Zulfikar in front, and Mohammad Nawaz’s dismissal of De Leede further solidified Pakistan’s position.

In response, vice-captain Shadab Khan also stepped up his game with the ball. Vikramjit’s effective stroke play in the powerplay garnered praise, including three boundaries off Shaheen. De Leede’s sublime six over wide long-on against Nawaz showcased his brilliance, but the Dutch found themselves overly reliant on his efforts.

Pakistan experienced two minor collapses in their innings, one at the start and another following a 120-run partnership between Mohammad Rizwan (68 off 75) and Saud Shakeel (68 off 52) for the fourth wicket.

While de Leede made vital breakthroughs in the middle-overs, off-spinners Aryan Dutt (1/48) and Colin Ackermann (2/39) capitalized on the Hyderabad pitch. Playing their first World Cup game, the Netherlands utilized eight bowling options after opting to field.

Pakistan faced early setbacks, losing Fakhar Zaman (12), skipper Babar Azam (5), and Imam Ul Haq (15) by the 10th over. Van Beek dismissed Zaman, Ackermann claimed Babar’s wicket, and Paul van Meekran sent Imam back with a well-directed short ball.

Rizwan and Saud steadied the ship, with Saud’s impressive performance against spinners being a highlight. However, de Leede’s breakthrough ended Rizwan’s innings.

Nawaz and Shadab’s partnership pushed Pakistan past 250, but de Leede’s quick succession of wickets halted their late surge. Pakistan aimed for 300 but concluded their innings at 286, ultimately securing a well-fought victory.