The target is a stiff one and Lanka have a really good bowling attack. Netherlands have struggled to chase mediocre scores in this tournament so far and we feel this is a little too much for them. Someone will need to play a blinder if they are to chase this down. Lanka on the other hand, will back themselves to defend it. All to play for then in the second half. Stay tuned.
Netherlands were really good for the first 10 overs or so. They hit the right lines and lengths and made it difficult for the Lankans. They did not have a lot of luck on their side as there were a lot of times when things did not go their way. Paul van Meekeren was brilliant. He bowled with a lot of pace and really impressed. The two spinners were also good earlier on but Netherlands just had no answers to the onslaught after the first 10. The lines were also not good and they were a little too
That is a brilliant recovery from the Lankans and they will surely be the happier of the two sides heading into the break. Mendis' innings has given Lanka a real chance of sealing their spot in the next round. He was the mainstay for the Lankans. They lost two or not a lot and found it very difficult to score too in the first half of this innings. However, once Mendis got his eye in, runs started to flow. Charith Asalanka played as the perfect foil to him and the two added fifty-plus to take the
Timm van der Gugten to Wanindu Hasaranga, TWO TO END! Fuller and outside off, this is hit through covers for a couple. A good comeback by the bowler after going for a boundary earlier on. Still though, 9 from the last over. SRI LANKA END WITH 162!
Timm van der Gugten to Chamika Karunaratne, That is a really good effort! On middle, Chamika Karunaratne lofts it down towards long on. The fielder runs in and dives forward but it lands just ahead of him. Good stop in the end. One taken.
Timm van der Gugten to Wanindu Hasaranga, Excellent execution! A yorker around leg, Hasaranga makes room and jams it out to point for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Chamika Karunaratne, Just the one! Singles won't harm Netherlands! On middle, this is hit through mid-wicket for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, ! TAKEN! That is a superb catch to end a brilliant, brilliant innings from Mendis! Single-handedly has taken his side to a score which we feel is really good on this wicket. Timm van der Gugten goes for another yorker but ends up serving a low full toss, Mendis looks to heave it over the leg side but it goes off the top edge towards deep square leg. It is very well taken by Roelof van der Merwe!
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, ! Thumped down the ground! Another over which starts with a boundary! Timm van der Gugten misses the yorker and it ends up being a full toss, it is thumped down the ground and to the long off fence.
Fred Klaassen to Wanindu Hasaranga, Two more! Misfield! 15 from the 19th! Outside off, this is guided towards point. The fielder dives and gets a hand to it. Short third man runs to his right and dives but it goes past him too. Two taken.
Fred Klaassen to Wanindu Hasaranga, A dot! Shorter and outside off, Wanindu Hasaranga swings but misses.
Fred Klaassen to Dasun Shanaka, ! TAKEN! That is where you want the batter to hit on this ground. Straight down the ground. The boundaries are so long, just not easy to clear it. On middle, a slower one. It is heaved down the ground towards long on. Colin Ackermann takes a really good catch tracking back and just ahead of the ropes.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Mendis misses out! That could have easily been three in the over. Mendis moves across, this is a full toss, Mendis heaves but it goes off the inner half through square leg for one.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, ! Two in two! 150 is up and now Lanka will be aiming for over 165. Mendis is into the 70s. Another length ball, Mendis is feeding on such deliveries. He pulls it well over the mid-wicket fence for a biggie. 12 from the first two balls. This could be a massive over.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, ! Yet again, a lot of height on that one but the distance too! Mendis with another biggie and one to begin the over. Pressure on the bowler big time now. Shorter and on middle, Mendis heaves it, it is not off the middle but it sails over the square leg fence.
Bas de Leede to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! TAKEN! That is an easy catch! Bas de Leede good form in this World Cup continues. He gets rid of the dangerous Bhanuka Rajapaksa! A low full toss, almost a yorker. Not easy to hit those. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to whip it but it goes off the toe-end. Tim Pringle takes it at long on. Can they keep Sri Lanka to under 160?
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, Not sure why he would want to play that when he can hit it long down the ground or square of the wicket. Looks to play the paddle scoop but then this is full and on off, he tries to play the reverse paddle but it goes off the toe-end and back to the bowler.
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, ! Into the fence! This time he waits, it is another slower one and shorter. Shanaka waits and then hammers it well over the mid-wicket fence for a biggie.
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, Swing and a miss! A slower one outside off, Dasun Shanaka is early in the heave. He misses.
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, TWO MORE! Dasun Shanaka is off the pair! Fuller and outside off, Shanaka lofts it over cover and two is taken.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Angled into the pads, Mendis works it towards deep square leg for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, Mendis retains strike! Another good over for Sri Lanka. On middle, this is pulled towards deep mid-wicket.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Follows the boundary with one as this is pushed through covers.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! Fortunate boundary! Frustrating stuff for Netherlands. All these top edges, leading edges and outside edges are just landing in vacant spaces on most occasions. Shorter and on middle, Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to pull, it goes off the top edge and lands over the keeper and into the fine leg fence.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Another couple! Shorter and outside off, this is guided past point for two.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Misfield and two! On middle, this is pushed down to long on. The fielder runs in, he takes his eyes off at the very end and misfields. Two taken.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, That goes really close past the off pole! Bhanuka Rajapaksa makes room, this is a slower one. He swings but misses and it just shaves the off pole.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Outside off, this is guided down to third man for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! That is beautiful! Fuller and outside off, this is hit nicely over cover, the timing is perfect and it goes for a boundary.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, WIDE SIGNALED BUT A LATE REVIEW IS TAKEN FOR CAUGHT BEHIND! It does pass close to the bat and the pad. NOT ! Nothing on it though and it remains a wide. A review which seemed in hope. Angled into the body, Mendis shuffles across and looks to pull but misses. The keeper takes it and appeals but wide given.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, On the pads, this is heaved, more off the inner half through mid-wicket for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shorter and outside off, this is guided through point for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Two! Fuller and on off, Bhanuka Rajapaksa lifts it over cover and takes two.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shorter and angling away. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to guide it down to third man but misses.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, ! Lovely placement and that is a big over for Lanka despite a wicket falling on the very first ball! This is short and outside off, Kusal Mendis guides it past point and this one races away to the fence.
Bas de Leede to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Another run as Bhanuka Rajapaksa nudges it around the corner.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Shorter and on middle, Mendis looks to pull, it goes off the inner half through mid-wicket for one.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, ! BANG! That goes over the fence! Fifty for Mendis, solid knock from him. He has held the innings together and holds the key for Lanka! Gets there in style! This is short and on middle, he pulls it over mid-wicket for another biggie. On a wicket where everyone seems to be struggling, he is batting quite easily.
Bas de Leede to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Bhanuka Rajapaksa is off the mark! On off, this is guided past point for one.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, ! EDGED AND TAKEN! There is the wicket Netherlands desperately needed! These two were going along really well. This is on a length and outside off, it lands and moves away. Charith Asalanka slashes at it but it goes off the outside edge and Scott Edwards takes a good catch diving forward. A good innings by Charith Asalanka! He played the supporting role to Mendis. Can Netherlands build on this now?
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Two more to end! This is outside off, it is lofted over cover for two.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, Charith Asalanka makes room, this is very full and on middle, it is carved out through point for one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Floats it up on off, Mendis strokes it down to long off and gets to the other end.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, On middle, defended.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, ! Finds the gap nicely! It is not a big gap but it is hit well! On middle, this is slog swept towards deep mid-wicket and in the gap. Boundary.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Two more! Fifty-run stand up and it is an important one for Lanka. They were in trouble when the two came together but are now taking them to safer shores. They have also got a move on and Lanka will hope the two can continue. Shorter and on middle, this is pulled wide of deep mid-wicket for two.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and on off, Charith Asalanka guides it through point for one more.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, Fuller and outside off, Charith Asalanka lofts it over cover for two.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, On the shorter side, this is pulled over mid-wicket for a couple. A run is now coming off every ball.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, On the shorter side, this is pushed through covers for one.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, On the pads, Charith Asalanka flicks it through square leg for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Charith Asalanka, A single to end! Sensible stuff then after the biggie and it is a productive over for the Lankans! On off, this is pushed through covers for one more.
Timm van der Gugten to Charith Asalanka, Two! Angled into the pads, Charith Asalanka works it through mid-wicket and takes two.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, On off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, Shorter and on off, Mendis guides it to point.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, Another one a little too straight, this is worked down to fine leg for two.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, ! Over the fence! Nicely played! On the pads, Mendis whips it, it goes quite high but it has the distance too.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, No timing again! Fuller and on off, Charith Asalanka lifts it over mid off. Takes two.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, Good pace again from Paul van Meekeren! Shorter and outside off, this zips through. Charith Asalanka is beaten as he tries to cut.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, Lands ahead of the fielder again! On middle, Charith Asalanka looks to flick, it hits the splice but lands short of the mid-wicket fielder.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, Beaten yet again! Paul van Meekeren drags his length back and this is bowled outside off. Charith Asalanka slashes but misses.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, ! Up and over! Fuller and outside off, Charith Asalanka lofts it over cover and it goes to the fence. Welcome boundary again. Just as the pressure was building, this boundary comes.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, BEATEN FOR PACE AGAIN! Fuller this time and outside off, Charith Asalanka has a slash at it but misses again.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, Was that a chance? Maybe! On the pads, Charith Asalanka looks to flick, this seems to have gone off the glove and hits the outer part of the glove of the keeper.
DRINKS! Have to say Netherlands will be the happier of the two sides but Sri Lanka are getting a move on now. Netherlands need to break this stand quickly or Lanka can get to over 150 which we feel will be above par. Sri Lanka will now feel the momentum is with them and they would want it to continue.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Two more! Fuller and on middle, Mendis lofts it down towards long on and takes two. Another good over for Lanka. They have stepped on the gas here.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, On the pads, this is clipped down to fine leg for one.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, ! That fielder was quite inside the fence, he probably misjudged it too! That was another half a chance for Netherlands! Shorter and on the body, this is pulled towards fine leg. Vikramjit Singh runs in at first but then has to track back. Does so and then leaps but the ball goes over and for a one-bounce boundary.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Bangs this one in outside off, it is cut through point for one.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, Another one that lands short! Yet again luck favoring Lanka. Fuller and on off, Charith Asalanka looks to go over cover but ends up miscuing it towards sweeper cover. It lands short, only one in the end.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, Good length and on off, defended.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, ! BANG! That is a pressure releasing shot. Really hit that well. This is angled into the pads. Mendis hits it with the angle, he slog sweeps it and it sails over the square leg fence for a biggie. The last ball spoils the over. 50 up for Lanka. It has taken time but has come up.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and outside off, this is guided towards short third man for one.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, Just short! Floats it up outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to drive but this goes more off the higher part of the bat and lands just short of the cover fielder.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Another single as this is pushed through covers. Runs really hard to come by for Lanka.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, On the pads, this is nudged on the leg side for one.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, Flatter and outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to cut but misses.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, That is a top over from Mendis! On middle, flatter, this is defended.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Top edge but safe! On middle, Mendis looks to sweep, this one comes slow off the surface and hence, it goes off the top edge but lands ahead of the bowler who runs ahead.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, On middle, this is worked throug mid-wicket for one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, Soft leading edge! On middle, Charith Asalanka looks to flick but this goes off a soft leading edge back to the bowler. Closed the face of the bat early.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, BEATEN! Fires this outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to guide it down to third man but misses.
Paul van Meekeren to Dhananjaya de Silva, ! LBW! This gets even better now for Netherlands! Paul van Meekeren is on fire here. Two in two for him. This could be considered as a fortunate wicket. Dhananjaya de Silva might have survived had he reviewed it. Paul van Meekeren though won't care. He goes full yet again, around middle and leg. Dhananjaya de Silva looks to flick but misses and gets hit on the pads. A loud appeal and the finger is raised. Dhananjaya de Silva has a chat with his p
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, ! Not the last ball Paul van Meekeren would have wanted but still, a tremendous over. This is a full toss and Mendis takes full toll of it, he whips it through mid-wicket and this one races away.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, No hat-trick and Charith Asalanka is off the mark! Outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to drive, it goes off a thickish outside edge down to third man for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, ! TIMBER! That is brilliant, just brilliant. Pretty sure Paul van Meekeren would have enjoyed that wicket. Pushed the batter onto the back foot by bowling the last one short and quick. Now goes for the yorker and it is a corker of a yorker at over 145 KPH. Pathum Nissanka is late in getting his bat down. The ball sneaks through and hits the off pole. This is a really good start for the Dutch.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, That is sharp too. Pathum Nissanka was quite hurried! Shorter and on middle, this one gets big on Pathum Nissanka who is hit on the glove as he tries to defend.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, That is quick! On middle, slightly shorter and on middle, Nissanka looks to flick but misses to get hit on the pads.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Nicely played in the end! Mendis steps out but does not get to the pitch of the ball. He still works it over mid-wicket for two. A good 6th for Sri Lanka. They are 36 for 0 after the Powerplay.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, Almost! For now, everything is going Lanka's way! This is angled into the pads. Pathum Nissanka looks to drive but this goes on with the angle, goes past the inside edge and just past the leg pole. The keeper fails to take it and it goes down towards fine leg for three. Byes.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, ! Clears the fence and that will release some pressure! The slog sweep is out, it is on middle, Pathum Nissanka strikes it well and it goes over the square leg fence. Welcome one for Lanka.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Mendis steps out but almost yorks himself, he jams it down to long off for one.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, A low full toss on middle, this is worked wide of the fielder at mid on for two.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Tossed up nicely and on middle, blocked.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, Safe! Outside off, Mendis slashes, this flies off the outside edge but lands short of third man. Only one. End of an action-packed over. Netherlands could have easily had a wicket but still though, a very tidy one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, Just the one. Shorter and on middle, Pathum Nissanka shuffles across and looks to pull, this goes off the inner half towards short fine leg for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, ALMOST! That was so, so close !Firstly a drop! A tough chance though. On middle, fuller, this is thumped back towards the bowler. Paul van Meekeren looks to catch it but this one bursts out and almost deflects onto the stumps at the other end. Mendis would have been short. Netherlands creating chances here.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, This lands safe! That is a lucky escape for Pathum Nissanka! He makes room, this is banged short and Paul van Meekeren follows him. Pathum Nissanka is beaten for pace. It goes off the splice as he tries to pull behind the wicket. The keeper runs in and dives but it lands short.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, On the pads, this is nudged down to fine leg for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, Outside off, Pathum Nissanka guides it down to third man and takes one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, A dot to end then! On middle, blocked. Steady start from the Lankans.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, ! Nicely swept! This is down the leg side. Mendis sweeps it, keeps it all along the ground and hits it through square leg for a boundary. Roelof van der Merwe is disappointed with himself, he knows that is a very poor ball.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Flatter now and on middle, blocked.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, That is a beauty! A lot of turn there. This is tossed up outside off, Mendis looks to drive but is beaten by the turn away.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Tossed up on off, Mendis pushes it to covers.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Two! On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for two.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, A beauty to end! Drags his length back, this lands and moves away from the middle pole. Pathum is beaten as he tries to defend.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Uppish again but in the gap! On middle, Pathum Nissanka looks to go for the heave, similar to the shot Mendis played on the very first ball. This too goes off the inner half wide of mid on. This is chased down and only two.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, On middle, Mendis tucks it around the corner and takes one.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Another one outside off, quite wide, Mendis makes another leave.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Angles this one from the off pole, left alone.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, ! Uppish but in the gap! First boundary of the game and that is a good start to the over. On middle, Mendis has a hack across the line, it goes more off the inner half but past mid on and into the fence.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Pathum Nissanka works it to square leg.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, Safe! Now tosses it up even more but this is a little too full, Pathum drives it uppishly but well short of cover.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, That is a beauty! Slows it up, lands it on off, draws Pathum Nissanka forward to defend, this lands and spins away. Beats the outside edge of the bat.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Shorter and on middle, Mendis works it through mid-wicket and gets off the mark.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, On middle, this one is pushed through, Mendis defends it.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Pathum Nissanka works it through square leg and takes one.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, A single to end and that is a tidy start from Fred Klaassen! On the pads, this is worked down to fine leg for one.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Half an appeal but turned down! Leg stump line,m tails back in, Pathum Nissanka looks to flick but misses to get hit on the pads. Going down leg.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Better! This time gets it to shape back in from around off, Pathum plays it to mid on.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Yet again some inward shape for Fred Klaassen but the line is once again a little too straight. Pathum Nissanka misses the flick and gets hit on the pad for another time in the over.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Lanka and Pathum Nissanka are underway! This time Fred Klaassen angles it across the off pole. Pathum Nissanka strokes it on the up through covers for two.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Some swing to begin with for Fred Klaassen! The line though is a little too straight, Pathum Nissanka looks to flick but misses to get hit on the pads.
Done and dusted with the National Anthems and we are all set for the action to begin. The Lankan openers, Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis make their way out to the middle. Fred Klaassen has the new ball in hand. Here we go...
NETHERLANDS (PLAYING XI) - Max O'Dowd, Vikramjit Singh, Bas de Leede, Tom Cooper, Colin Ackermann, Scott Edwards (WK/C), Tim Pringle, Roelof van der Merwe, Timm van der Gugten, Fred Klaassen, Paul van Meekeren.
SRI LANKA (PLAYING XI) - Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Dhananjaya de Silva, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (C), Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Lahiru Kumara (IN FOR Dushmantha Chameera), Maheesh Theekshana, Binura Fernando (IN FOR Pramod Madushan).
Scott Edwards starts by joking he was hoping he lost the toss. Then says he probably would have batted but does not mind chasing. Adds they wanted to win three games of cricket and that is what they will try and do and not think about the NRR.
Dasun Shanaka says it is a used wicket and they want to make best use of it. Informs they have two changes. States they needed the win in their last game and they needed to show they can bounce and they are looking to do good here too.
The target is a stiff one and Lanka have a really good bowling attack. Netherlands have struggled to chase mediocre scores in this tournament so far and we feel this is a little too much for them. Someone will need to play a blinder if they are to chase this down. Lanka on the other hand, will back themselves to defend it. All to play for then in the second half. Stay tuned.
Netherlands were really good for the first 10 overs or so. They hit the right lines and lengths and made it difficult for the Lankans. They did not have a lot of luck on their side as there were a lot of times when things did not go their way. Paul van Meekeren was brilliant. He bowled with a lot of pace and really impressed. The two spinners were also good earlier on but Netherlands just had no answers to the onslaught after the first 10. The lines were also not good and they were a little too
That is a brilliant recovery from the Lankans and they will surely be the happier of the two sides heading into the break. Mendis' innings has given Lanka a real chance of sealing their spot in the next round. He was the mainstay for the Lankans. They lost two or not a lot and found it very difficult to score too in the first half of this innings. However, once Mendis got his eye in, runs started to flow. Charith Asalanka played as the perfect foil to him and the two added fifty-plus to take the
Timm van der Gugten to Wanindu Hasaranga, TWO TO END! Fuller and outside off, this is hit through covers for a couple. A good comeback by the bowler after going for a boundary earlier on. Still though, 9 from the last over. SRI LANKA END WITH 162!
Timm van der Gugten to Chamika Karunaratne, That is a really good effort! On middle, Chamika Karunaratne lofts it down towards long on. The fielder runs in and dives forward but it lands just ahead of him. Good stop in the end. One taken.
Timm van der Gugten to Wanindu Hasaranga, Excellent execution! A yorker around leg, Hasaranga makes room and jams it out to point for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Chamika Karunaratne, Just the one! Singles won't harm Netherlands! On middle, this is hit through mid-wicket for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, ! TAKEN! That is a superb catch to end a brilliant, brilliant innings from Mendis! Single-handedly has taken his side to a score which we feel is really good on this wicket. Timm van der Gugten goes for another yorker but ends up serving a low full toss, Mendis looks to heave it over the leg side but it goes off the top edge towards deep square leg. It is very well taken by Roelof van der Merwe!
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, ! Thumped down the ground! Another over which starts with a boundary! Timm van der Gugten misses the yorker and it ends up being a full toss, it is thumped down the ground and to the long off fence.
Fred Klaassen to Wanindu Hasaranga, Two more! Misfield! 15 from the 19th! Outside off, this is guided towards point. The fielder dives and gets a hand to it. Short third man runs to his right and dives but it goes past him too. Two taken.
Fred Klaassen to Wanindu Hasaranga, A dot! Shorter and outside off, Wanindu Hasaranga swings but misses.
Fred Klaassen to Dasun Shanaka, ! TAKEN! That is where you want the batter to hit on this ground. Straight down the ground. The boundaries are so long, just not easy to clear it. On middle, a slower one. It is heaved down the ground towards long on. Colin Ackermann takes a really good catch tracking back and just ahead of the ropes.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Mendis misses out! That could have easily been three in the over. Mendis moves across, this is a full toss, Mendis heaves but it goes off the inner half through square leg for one.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, ! Two in two! 150 is up and now Lanka will be aiming for over 165. Mendis is into the 70s. Another length ball, Mendis is feeding on such deliveries. He pulls it well over the mid-wicket fence for a biggie. 12 from the first two balls. This could be a massive over.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, ! Yet again, a lot of height on that one but the distance too! Mendis with another biggie and one to begin the over. Pressure on the bowler big time now. Shorter and on middle, Mendis heaves it, it is not off the middle but it sails over the square leg fence.
Bas de Leede to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! TAKEN! That is an easy catch! Bas de Leede good form in this World Cup continues. He gets rid of the dangerous Bhanuka Rajapaksa! A low full toss, almost a yorker. Not easy to hit those. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to whip it but it goes off the toe-end. Tim Pringle takes it at long on. Can they keep Sri Lanka to under 160?
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, Not sure why he would want to play that when he can hit it long down the ground or square of the wicket. Looks to play the paddle scoop but then this is full and on off, he tries to play the reverse paddle but it goes off the toe-end and back to the bowler.
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, ! Into the fence! This time he waits, it is another slower one and shorter. Shanaka waits and then hammers it well over the mid-wicket fence for a biggie.
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, Swing and a miss! A slower one outside off, Dasun Shanaka is early in the heave. He misses.
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, TWO MORE! Dasun Shanaka is off the pair! Fuller and outside off, Shanaka lofts it over cover and two is taken.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Angled into the pads, Mendis works it towards deep square leg for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, Mendis retains strike! Another good over for Sri Lanka. On middle, this is pulled towards deep mid-wicket.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Follows the boundary with one as this is pushed through covers.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! Fortunate boundary! Frustrating stuff for Netherlands. All these top edges, leading edges and outside edges are just landing in vacant spaces on most occasions. Shorter and on middle, Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to pull, it goes off the top edge and lands over the keeper and into the fine leg fence.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Another couple! Shorter and outside off, this is guided past point for two.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Misfield and two! On middle, this is pushed down to long on. The fielder runs in, he takes his eyes off at the very end and misfields. Two taken.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, That goes really close past the off pole! Bhanuka Rajapaksa makes room, this is a slower one. He swings but misses and it just shaves the off pole.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Outside off, this is guided down to third man for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! That is beautiful! Fuller and outside off, this is hit nicely over cover, the timing is perfect and it goes for a boundary.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, WIDE SIGNALED BUT A LATE REVIEW IS TAKEN FOR CAUGHT BEHIND! It does pass close to the bat and the pad. NOT ! Nothing on it though and it remains a wide. A review which seemed in hope. Angled into the body, Mendis shuffles across and looks to pull but misses. The keeper takes it and appeals but wide given.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, On the pads, this is heaved, more off the inner half through mid-wicket for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shorter and outside off, this is guided through point for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Two! Fuller and on off, Bhanuka Rajapaksa lifts it over cover and takes two.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shorter and angling away. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to guide it down to third man but misses.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, ! Lovely placement and that is a big over for Lanka despite a wicket falling on the very first ball! This is short and outside off, Kusal Mendis guides it past point and this one races away to the fence.
Bas de Leede to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Another run as Bhanuka Rajapaksa nudges it around the corner.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Shorter and on middle, Mendis looks to pull, it goes off the inner half through mid-wicket for one.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, ! BANG! That goes over the fence! Fifty for Mendis, solid knock from him. He has held the innings together and holds the key for Lanka! Gets there in style! This is short and on middle, he pulls it over mid-wicket for another biggie. On a wicket where everyone seems to be struggling, he is batting quite easily.
Bas de Leede to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Bhanuka Rajapaksa is off the mark! On off, this is guided past point for one.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, ! EDGED AND TAKEN! There is the wicket Netherlands desperately needed! These two were going along really well. This is on a length and outside off, it lands and moves away. Charith Asalanka slashes at it but it goes off the outside edge and Scott Edwards takes a good catch diving forward. A good innings by Charith Asalanka! He played the supporting role to Mendis. Can Netherlands build on this now?
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Two more to end! This is outside off, it is lofted over cover for two.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, Charith Asalanka makes room, this is very full and on middle, it is carved out through point for one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Floats it up on off, Mendis strokes it down to long off and gets to the other end.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, On middle, defended.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, ! Finds the gap nicely! It is not a big gap but it is hit well! On middle, this is slog swept towards deep mid-wicket and in the gap. Boundary.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Two more! Fifty-run stand up and it is an important one for Lanka. They were in trouble when the two came together but are now taking them to safer shores. They have also got a move on and Lanka will hope the two can continue. Shorter and on middle, this is pulled wide of deep mid-wicket for two.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and on off, Charith Asalanka guides it through point for one more.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, Fuller and outside off, Charith Asalanka lofts it over cover for two.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, On the shorter side, this is pulled over mid-wicket for a couple. A run is now coming off every ball.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, On the shorter side, this is pushed through covers for one.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, On the pads, Charith Asalanka flicks it through square leg for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Charith Asalanka, A single to end! Sensible stuff then after the biggie and it is a productive over for the Lankans! On off, this is pushed through covers for one more.
Timm van der Gugten to Charith Asalanka, Two! Angled into the pads, Charith Asalanka works it through mid-wicket and takes two.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, On off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, Shorter and on off, Mendis guides it to point.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, Another one a little too straight, this is worked down to fine leg for two.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, ! Over the fence! Nicely played! On the pads, Mendis whips it, it goes quite high but it has the distance too.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, No timing again! Fuller and on off, Charith Asalanka lifts it over mid off. Takes two.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, Good pace again from Paul van Meekeren! Shorter and outside off, this zips through. Charith Asalanka is beaten as he tries to cut.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, Lands ahead of the fielder again! On middle, Charith Asalanka looks to flick, it hits the splice but lands short of the mid-wicket fielder.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, Beaten yet again! Paul van Meekeren drags his length back and this is bowled outside off. Charith Asalanka slashes but misses.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, ! Up and over! Fuller and outside off, Charith Asalanka lofts it over cover and it goes to the fence. Welcome boundary again. Just as the pressure was building, this boundary comes.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, BEATEN FOR PACE AGAIN! Fuller this time and outside off, Charith Asalanka has a slash at it but misses again.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, Was that a chance? Maybe! On the pads, Charith Asalanka looks to flick, this seems to have gone off the glove and hits the outer part of the glove of the keeper.
DRINKS! Have to say Netherlands will be the happier of the two sides but Sri Lanka are getting a move on now. Netherlands need to break this stand quickly or Lanka can get to over 150 which we feel will be above par. Sri Lanka will now feel the momentum is with them and they would want it to continue.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Two more! Fuller and on middle, Mendis lofts it down towards long on and takes two. Another good over for Lanka. They have stepped on the gas here.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, On the pads, this is clipped down to fine leg for one.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, ! That fielder was quite inside the fence, he probably misjudged it too! That was another half a chance for Netherlands! Shorter and on the body, this is pulled towards fine leg. Vikramjit Singh runs in at first but then has to track back. Does so and then leaps but the ball goes over and for a one-bounce boundary.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Bangs this one in outside off, it is cut through point for one.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, Another one that lands short! Yet again luck favoring Lanka. Fuller and on off, Charith Asalanka looks to go over cover but ends up miscuing it towards sweeper cover. It lands short, only one in the end.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, Good length and on off, defended.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, ! BANG! That is a pressure releasing shot. Really hit that well. This is angled into the pads. Mendis hits it with the angle, he slog sweeps it and it sails over the square leg fence for a biggie. The last ball spoils the over. 50 up for Lanka. It has taken time but has come up.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and outside off, this is guided towards short third man for one.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, Just short! Floats it up outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to drive but this goes more off the higher part of the bat and lands just short of the cover fielder.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Another single as this is pushed through covers. Runs really hard to come by for Lanka.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, On the pads, this is nudged on the leg side for one.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, Flatter and outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to cut but misses.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, That is a top over from Mendis! On middle, flatter, this is defended.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Top edge but safe! On middle, Mendis looks to sweep, this one comes slow off the surface and hence, it goes off the top edge but lands ahead of the bowler who runs ahead.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, On middle, this is worked throug mid-wicket for one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, Soft leading edge! On middle, Charith Asalanka looks to flick but this goes off a soft leading edge back to the bowler. Closed the face of the bat early.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, BEATEN! Fires this outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to guide it down to third man but misses.
Paul van Meekeren to Dhananjaya de Silva, ! LBW! This gets even better now for Netherlands! Paul van Meekeren is on fire here. Two in two for him. This could be considered as a fortunate wicket. Dhananjaya de Silva might have survived had he reviewed it. Paul van Meekeren though won't care. He goes full yet again, around middle and leg. Dhananjaya de Silva looks to flick but misses and gets hit on the pads. A loud appeal and the finger is raised. Dhananjaya de Silva has a chat with his p
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, ! Not the last ball Paul van Meekeren would have wanted but still, a tremendous over. This is a full toss and Mendis takes full toll of it, he whips it through mid-wicket and this one races away.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, No hat-trick and Charith Asalanka is off the mark! Outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to drive, it goes off a thickish outside edge down to third man for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, ! TIMBER! That is brilliant, just brilliant. Pretty sure Paul van Meekeren would have enjoyed that wicket. Pushed the batter onto the back foot by bowling the last one short and quick. Now goes for the yorker and it is a corker of a yorker at over 145 KPH. Pathum Nissanka is late in getting his bat down. The ball sneaks through and hits the off pole. This is a really good start for the Dutch.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, That is sharp too. Pathum Nissanka was quite hurried! Shorter and on middle, this one gets big on Pathum Nissanka who is hit on the glove as he tries to defend.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, That is quick! On middle, slightly shorter and on middle, Nissanka looks to flick but misses to get hit on the pads.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Nicely played in the end! Mendis steps out but does not get to the pitch of the ball. He still works it over mid-wicket for two. A good 6th for Sri Lanka. They are 36 for 0 after the Powerplay.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, Almost! For now, everything is going Lanka's way! This is angled into the pads. Pathum Nissanka looks to drive but this goes on with the angle, goes past the inside edge and just past the leg pole. The keeper fails to take it and it goes down towards fine leg for three. Byes.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, ! Clears the fence and that will release some pressure! The slog sweep is out, it is on middle, Pathum Nissanka strikes it well and it goes over the square leg fence. Welcome one for Lanka.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Mendis steps out but almost yorks himself, he jams it down to long off for one.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, A low full toss on middle, this is worked wide of the fielder at mid on for two.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Tossed up nicely and on middle, blocked.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, Safe! Outside off, Mendis slashes, this flies off the outside edge but lands short of third man. Only one. End of an action-packed over. Netherlands could have easily had a wicket but still though, a very tidy one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, Just the one. Shorter and on middle, Pathum Nissanka shuffles across and looks to pull, this goes off the inner half towards short fine leg for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, ALMOST! That was so, so close !Firstly a drop! A tough chance though. On middle, fuller, this is thumped back towards the bowler. Paul van Meekeren looks to catch it but this one bursts out and almost deflects onto the stumps at the other end. Mendis would have been short. Netherlands creating chances here.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, This lands safe! That is a lucky escape for Pathum Nissanka! He makes room, this is banged short and Paul van Meekeren follows him. Pathum Nissanka is beaten for pace. It goes off the splice as he tries to pull behind the wicket. The keeper runs in and dives but it lands short.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, On the pads, this is nudged down to fine leg for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, Outside off, Pathum Nissanka guides it down to third man and takes one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, A dot to end then! On middle, blocked. Steady start from the Lankans.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, ! Nicely swept! This is down the leg side. Mendis sweeps it, keeps it all along the ground and hits it through square leg for a boundary. Roelof van der Merwe is disappointed with himself, he knows that is a very poor ball.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Flatter now and on middle, blocked.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, That is a beauty! A lot of turn there. This is tossed up outside off, Mendis looks to drive but is beaten by the turn away.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Tossed up on off, Mendis pushes it to covers.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Two! On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for two.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, A beauty to end! Drags his length back, this lands and moves away from the middle pole. Pathum is beaten as he tries to defend.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Uppish again but in the gap! On middle, Pathum Nissanka looks to go for the heave, similar to the shot Mendis played on the very first ball. This too goes off the inner half wide of mid on. This is chased down and only two.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, On middle, Mendis tucks it around the corner and takes one.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Another one outside off, quite wide, Mendis makes another leave.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Angles this one from the off pole, left alone.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, ! Uppish but in the gap! First boundary of the game and that is a good start to the over. On middle, Mendis has a hack across the line, it goes more off the inner half but past mid on and into the fence.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Pathum Nissanka works it to square leg.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, Safe! Now tosses it up even more but this is a little too full, Pathum drives it uppishly but well short of cover.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, That is a beauty! Slows it up, lands it on off, draws Pathum Nissanka forward to defend, this lands and spins away. Beats the outside edge of the bat.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Shorter and on middle, Mendis works it through mid-wicket and gets off the mark.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, On middle, this one is pushed through, Mendis defends it.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Pathum Nissanka works it through square leg and takes one.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, A single to end and that is a tidy start from Fred Klaassen! On the pads, this is worked down to fine leg for one.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Half an appeal but turned down! Leg stump line,m tails back in, Pathum Nissanka looks to flick but misses to get hit on the pads. Going down leg.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Better! This time gets it to shape back in from around off, Pathum plays it to mid on.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Yet again some inward shape for Fred Klaassen but the line is once again a little too straight. Pathum Nissanka misses the flick and gets hit on the pad for another time in the over.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Lanka and Pathum Nissanka are underway! This time Fred Klaassen angles it across the off pole. Pathum Nissanka strokes it on the up through covers for two.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Some swing to begin with for Fred Klaassen! The line though is a little too straight, Pathum Nissanka looks to flick but misses to get hit on the pads.
Done and dusted with the National Anthems and we are all set for the action to begin. The Lankan openers, Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis make their way out to the middle. Fred Klaassen has the new ball in hand. Here we go...
NETHERLANDS (PLAYING XI) - Max O'Dowd, Vikramjit Singh, Bas de Leede, Tom Cooper, Colin Ackermann, Scott Edwards (WK/C), Tim Pringle, Roelof van der Merwe, Timm van der Gugten, Fred Klaassen, Paul van Meekeren.
SRI LANKA (PLAYING XI) - Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Dhananjaya de Silva, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (C), Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Lahiru Kumara (IN FOR Dushmantha Chameera), Maheesh Theekshana, Binura Fernando (IN FOR Pramod Madushan).
Scott Edwards starts by joking he was hoping he lost the toss. Then says he probably would have batted but does not mind chasing. Adds they wanted to win three games of cricket and that is what they will try and do and not think about the NRR.
Dasun Shanaka says it is a used wicket and they want to make best use of it. Informs they have two changes. States they needed the win in their last game and they needed to show they can bounce and they are looking to do good here too.
7
Diabytes
Netherlands
146/9(20 Overs)
The target is a stiff one and Lanka have a really good bowling attack. Netherlands have struggled to chase mediocre scores in this tournament so far and we feel this is a little too much for them. Someone will need to play a blinder if they are to chase this down. Lanka on the other hand, will back themselves to defend it. All to play for then in the second half. Stay tuned.
Netherlands were really good for the first 10 overs or so. They hit the right lines and lengths and made it difficult for the Lankans. They did not have a lot of luck on their side as there were a lot of times when things did not go their way. Paul van Meekeren was brilliant. He bowled with a lot of pace and really impressed. The two spinners were also good earlier on but Netherlands just had no answers to the onslaught after the first 10. The lines were also not good and they were a little too
That is a brilliant recovery from the Lankans and they will surely be the happier of the two sides heading into the break. Mendis' innings has given Lanka a real chance of sealing their spot in the next round. He was the mainstay for the Lankans. They lost two or not a lot and found it very difficult to score too in the first half of this innings. However, once Mendis got his eye in, runs started to flow. Charith Asalanka played as the perfect foil to him and the two added fifty-plus to take the
Timm van der Gugten to Wanindu Hasaranga, TWO TO END! Fuller and outside off, this is hit through covers for a couple. A good comeback by the bowler after going for a boundary earlier on. Still though, 9 from the last over. SRI LANKA END WITH 162!
Timm van der Gugten to Chamika Karunaratne, That is a really good effort! On middle, Chamika Karunaratne lofts it down towards long on. The fielder runs in and dives forward but it lands just ahead of him. Good stop in the end. One taken.
Timm van der Gugten to Wanindu Hasaranga, Excellent execution! A yorker around leg, Hasaranga makes room and jams it out to point for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Chamika Karunaratne, Just the one! Singles won't harm Netherlands! On middle, this is hit through mid-wicket for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, ! TAKEN! That is a superb catch to end a brilliant, brilliant innings from Mendis! Single-handedly has taken his side to a score which we feel is really good on this wicket. Timm van der Gugten goes for another yorker but ends up serving a low full toss, Mendis looks to heave it over the leg side but it goes off the top edge towards deep square leg. It is very well taken by Roelof van der Merwe!
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, ! Thumped down the ground! Another over which starts with a boundary! Timm van der Gugten misses the yorker and it ends up being a full toss, it is thumped down the ground and to the long off fence.
Fred Klaassen to Wanindu Hasaranga, Two more! Misfield! 15 from the 19th! Outside off, this is guided towards point. The fielder dives and gets a hand to it. Short third man runs to his right and dives but it goes past him too. Two taken.
Fred Klaassen to Wanindu Hasaranga, A dot! Shorter and outside off, Wanindu Hasaranga swings but misses.
Fred Klaassen to Dasun Shanaka, ! TAKEN! That is where you want the batter to hit on this ground. Straight down the ground. The boundaries are so long, just not easy to clear it. On middle, a slower one. It is heaved down the ground towards long on. Colin Ackermann takes a really good catch tracking back and just ahead of the ropes.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Mendis misses out! That could have easily been three in the over. Mendis moves across, this is a full toss, Mendis heaves but it goes off the inner half through square leg for one.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, ! Two in two! 150 is up and now Lanka will be aiming for over 165. Mendis is into the 70s. Another length ball, Mendis is feeding on such deliveries. He pulls it well over the mid-wicket fence for a biggie. 12 from the first two balls. This could be a massive over.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, ! Yet again, a lot of height on that one but the distance too! Mendis with another biggie and one to begin the over. Pressure on the bowler big time now. Shorter and on middle, Mendis heaves it, it is not off the middle but it sails over the square leg fence.
Bas de Leede to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! TAKEN! That is an easy catch! Bas de Leede good form in this World Cup continues. He gets rid of the dangerous Bhanuka Rajapaksa! A low full toss, almost a yorker. Not easy to hit those. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to whip it but it goes off the toe-end. Tim Pringle takes it at long on. Can they keep Sri Lanka to under 160?
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, Not sure why he would want to play that when he can hit it long down the ground or square of the wicket. Looks to play the paddle scoop but then this is full and on off, he tries to play the reverse paddle but it goes off the toe-end and back to the bowler.
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, ! Into the fence! This time he waits, it is another slower one and shorter. Shanaka waits and then hammers it well over the mid-wicket fence for a biggie.
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, Swing and a miss! A slower one outside off, Dasun Shanaka is early in the heave. He misses.
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, TWO MORE! Dasun Shanaka is off the pair! Fuller and outside off, Shanaka lofts it over cover and two is taken.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Angled into the pads, Mendis works it towards deep square leg for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, Mendis retains strike! Another good over for Sri Lanka. On middle, this is pulled towards deep mid-wicket.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Follows the boundary with one as this is pushed through covers.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! Fortunate boundary! Frustrating stuff for Netherlands. All these top edges, leading edges and outside edges are just landing in vacant spaces on most occasions. Shorter and on middle, Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to pull, it goes off the top edge and lands over the keeper and into the fine leg fence.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Another couple! Shorter and outside off, this is guided past point for two.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Misfield and two! On middle, this is pushed down to long on. The fielder runs in, he takes his eyes off at the very end and misfields. Two taken.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, That goes really close past the off pole! Bhanuka Rajapaksa makes room, this is a slower one. He swings but misses and it just shaves the off pole.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Outside off, this is guided down to third man for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! That is beautiful! Fuller and outside off, this is hit nicely over cover, the timing is perfect and it goes for a boundary.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, WIDE SIGNALED BUT A LATE REVIEW IS TAKEN FOR CAUGHT BEHIND! It does pass close to the bat and the pad. NOT ! Nothing on it though and it remains a wide. A review which seemed in hope. Angled into the body, Mendis shuffles across and looks to pull but misses. The keeper takes it and appeals but wide given.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, On the pads, this is heaved, more off the inner half through mid-wicket for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shorter and outside off, this is guided through point for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Two! Fuller and on off, Bhanuka Rajapaksa lifts it over cover and takes two.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shorter and angling away. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to guide it down to third man but misses.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, ! Lovely placement and that is a big over for Lanka despite a wicket falling on the very first ball! This is short and outside off, Kusal Mendis guides it past point and this one races away to the fence.
Bas de Leede to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Another run as Bhanuka Rajapaksa nudges it around the corner.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Shorter and on middle, Mendis looks to pull, it goes off the inner half through mid-wicket for one.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, ! BANG! That goes over the fence! Fifty for Mendis, solid knock from him. He has held the innings together and holds the key for Lanka! Gets there in style! This is short and on middle, he pulls it over mid-wicket for another biggie. On a wicket where everyone seems to be struggling, he is batting quite easily.
Bas de Leede to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Bhanuka Rajapaksa is off the mark! On off, this is guided past point for one.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, ! EDGED AND TAKEN! There is the wicket Netherlands desperately needed! These two were going along really well. This is on a length and outside off, it lands and moves away. Charith Asalanka slashes at it but it goes off the outside edge and Scott Edwards takes a good catch diving forward. A good innings by Charith Asalanka! He played the supporting role to Mendis. Can Netherlands build on this now?
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Two more to end! This is outside off, it is lofted over cover for two.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, Charith Asalanka makes room, this is very full and on middle, it is carved out through point for one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Floats it up on off, Mendis strokes it down to long off and gets to the other end.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, On middle, defended.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, ! Finds the gap nicely! It is not a big gap but it is hit well! On middle, this is slog swept towards deep mid-wicket and in the gap. Boundary.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Two more! Fifty-run stand up and it is an important one for Lanka. They were in trouble when the two came together but are now taking them to safer shores. They have also got a move on and Lanka will hope the two can continue. Shorter and on middle, this is pulled wide of deep mid-wicket for two.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and on off, Charith Asalanka guides it through point for one more.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, Fuller and outside off, Charith Asalanka lofts it over cover for two.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, On the shorter side, this is pulled over mid-wicket for a couple. A run is now coming off every ball.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, On the shorter side, this is pushed through covers for one.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, On the pads, Charith Asalanka flicks it through square leg for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Charith Asalanka, A single to end! Sensible stuff then after the biggie and it is a productive over for the Lankans! On off, this is pushed through covers for one more.
Timm van der Gugten to Charith Asalanka, Two! Angled into the pads, Charith Asalanka works it through mid-wicket and takes two.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, On off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, Shorter and on off, Mendis guides it to point.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, Another one a little too straight, this is worked down to fine leg for two.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, ! Over the fence! Nicely played! On the pads, Mendis whips it, it goes quite high but it has the distance too.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, No timing again! Fuller and on off, Charith Asalanka lifts it over mid off. Takes two.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, Good pace again from Paul van Meekeren! Shorter and outside off, this zips through. Charith Asalanka is beaten as he tries to cut.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, Lands ahead of the fielder again! On middle, Charith Asalanka looks to flick, it hits the splice but lands short of the mid-wicket fielder.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, Beaten yet again! Paul van Meekeren drags his length back and this is bowled outside off. Charith Asalanka slashes but misses.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, ! Up and over! Fuller and outside off, Charith Asalanka lofts it over cover and it goes to the fence. Welcome boundary again. Just as the pressure was building, this boundary comes.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, BEATEN FOR PACE AGAIN! Fuller this time and outside off, Charith Asalanka has a slash at it but misses again.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, Was that a chance? Maybe! On the pads, Charith Asalanka looks to flick, this seems to have gone off the glove and hits the outer part of the glove of the keeper.
DRINKS! Have to say Netherlands will be the happier of the two sides but Sri Lanka are getting a move on now. Netherlands need to break this stand quickly or Lanka can get to over 150 which we feel will be above par. Sri Lanka will now feel the momentum is with them and they would want it to continue.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Two more! Fuller and on middle, Mendis lofts it down towards long on and takes two. Another good over for Lanka. They have stepped on the gas here.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, On the pads, this is clipped down to fine leg for one.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, ! That fielder was quite inside the fence, he probably misjudged it too! That was another half a chance for Netherlands! Shorter and on the body, this is pulled towards fine leg. Vikramjit Singh runs in at first but then has to track back. Does so and then leaps but the ball goes over and for a one-bounce boundary.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Bangs this one in outside off, it is cut through point for one.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, Another one that lands short! Yet again luck favoring Lanka. Fuller and on off, Charith Asalanka looks to go over cover but ends up miscuing it towards sweeper cover. It lands short, only one in the end.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, Good length and on off, defended.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, ! BANG! That is a pressure releasing shot. Really hit that well. This is angled into the pads. Mendis hits it with the angle, he slog sweeps it and it sails over the square leg fence for a biggie. The last ball spoils the over. 50 up for Lanka. It has taken time but has come up.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and outside off, this is guided towards short third man for one.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, Just short! Floats it up outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to drive but this goes more off the higher part of the bat and lands just short of the cover fielder.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Another single as this is pushed through covers. Runs really hard to come by for Lanka.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, On the pads, this is nudged on the leg side for one.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, Flatter and outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to cut but misses.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, That is a top over from Mendis! On middle, flatter, this is defended.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Top edge but safe! On middle, Mendis looks to sweep, this one comes slow off the surface and hence, it goes off the top edge but lands ahead of the bowler who runs ahead.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, On middle, this is worked throug mid-wicket for one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, Soft leading edge! On middle, Charith Asalanka looks to flick but this goes off a soft leading edge back to the bowler. Closed the face of the bat early.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, BEATEN! Fires this outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to guide it down to third man but misses.
Paul van Meekeren to Dhananjaya de Silva, ! LBW! This gets even better now for Netherlands! Paul van Meekeren is on fire here. Two in two for him. This could be considered as a fortunate wicket. Dhananjaya de Silva might have survived had he reviewed it. Paul van Meekeren though won't care. He goes full yet again, around middle and leg. Dhananjaya de Silva looks to flick but misses and gets hit on the pads. A loud appeal and the finger is raised. Dhananjaya de Silva has a chat with his p
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, ! Not the last ball Paul van Meekeren would have wanted but still, a tremendous over. This is a full toss and Mendis takes full toll of it, he whips it through mid-wicket and this one races away.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, No hat-trick and Charith Asalanka is off the mark! Outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to drive, it goes off a thickish outside edge down to third man for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, ! TIMBER! That is brilliant, just brilliant. Pretty sure Paul van Meekeren would have enjoyed that wicket. Pushed the batter onto the back foot by bowling the last one short and quick. Now goes for the yorker and it is a corker of a yorker at over 145 KPH. Pathum Nissanka is late in getting his bat down. The ball sneaks through and hits the off pole. This is a really good start for the Dutch.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, That is sharp too. Pathum Nissanka was quite hurried! Shorter and on middle, this one gets big on Pathum Nissanka who is hit on the glove as he tries to defend.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, That is quick! On middle, slightly shorter and on middle, Nissanka looks to flick but misses to get hit on the pads.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Nicely played in the end! Mendis steps out but does not get to the pitch of the ball. He still works it over mid-wicket for two. A good 6th for Sri Lanka. They are 36 for 0 after the Powerplay.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, Almost! For now, everything is going Lanka's way! This is angled into the pads. Pathum Nissanka looks to drive but this goes on with the angle, goes past the inside edge and just past the leg pole. The keeper fails to take it and it goes down towards fine leg for three. Byes.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, ! Clears the fence and that will release some pressure! The slog sweep is out, it is on middle, Pathum Nissanka strikes it well and it goes over the square leg fence. Welcome one for Lanka.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Mendis steps out but almost yorks himself, he jams it down to long off for one.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, A low full toss on middle, this is worked wide of the fielder at mid on for two.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Tossed up nicely and on middle, blocked.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, Safe! Outside off, Mendis slashes, this flies off the outside edge but lands short of third man. Only one. End of an action-packed over. Netherlands could have easily had a wicket but still though, a very tidy one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, Just the one. Shorter and on middle, Pathum Nissanka shuffles across and looks to pull, this goes off the inner half towards short fine leg for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, ALMOST! That was so, so close !Firstly a drop! A tough chance though. On middle, fuller, this is thumped back towards the bowler. Paul van Meekeren looks to catch it but this one bursts out and almost deflects onto the stumps at the other end. Mendis would have been short. Netherlands creating chances here.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, This lands safe! That is a lucky escape for Pathum Nissanka! He makes room, this is banged short and Paul van Meekeren follows him. Pathum Nissanka is beaten for pace. It goes off the splice as he tries to pull behind the wicket. The keeper runs in and dives but it lands short.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, On the pads, this is nudged down to fine leg for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, Outside off, Pathum Nissanka guides it down to third man and takes one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, A dot to end then! On middle, blocked. Steady start from the Lankans.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, ! Nicely swept! This is down the leg side. Mendis sweeps it, keeps it all along the ground and hits it through square leg for a boundary. Roelof van der Merwe is disappointed with himself, he knows that is a very poor ball.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Flatter now and on middle, blocked.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, That is a beauty! A lot of turn there. This is tossed up outside off, Mendis looks to drive but is beaten by the turn away.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Tossed up on off, Mendis pushes it to covers.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Two! On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for two.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, A beauty to end! Drags his length back, this lands and moves away from the middle pole. Pathum is beaten as he tries to defend.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Uppish again but in the gap! On middle, Pathum Nissanka looks to go for the heave, similar to the shot Mendis played on the very first ball. This too goes off the inner half wide of mid on. This is chased down and only two.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, On middle, Mendis tucks it around the corner and takes one.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Another one outside off, quite wide, Mendis makes another leave.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Angles this one from the off pole, left alone.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, ! Uppish but in the gap! First boundary of the game and that is a good start to the over. On middle, Mendis has a hack across the line, it goes more off the inner half but past mid on and into the fence.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Pathum Nissanka works it to square leg.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, Safe! Now tosses it up even more but this is a little too full, Pathum drives it uppishly but well short of cover.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, That is a beauty! Slows it up, lands it on off, draws Pathum Nissanka forward to defend, this lands and spins away. Beats the outside edge of the bat.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Shorter and on middle, Mendis works it through mid-wicket and gets off the mark.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, On middle, this one is pushed through, Mendis defends it.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Pathum Nissanka works it through square leg and takes one.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, A single to end and that is a tidy start from Fred Klaassen! On the pads, this is worked down to fine leg for one.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Half an appeal but turned down! Leg stump line,m tails back in, Pathum Nissanka looks to flick but misses to get hit on the pads. Going down leg.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Better! This time gets it to shape back in from around off, Pathum plays it to mid on.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Yet again some inward shape for Fred Klaassen but the line is once again a little too straight. Pathum Nissanka misses the flick and gets hit on the pad for another time in the over.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Lanka and Pathum Nissanka are underway! This time Fred Klaassen angles it across the off pole. Pathum Nissanka strokes it on the up through covers for two.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Some swing to begin with for Fred Klaassen! The line though is a little too straight, Pathum Nissanka looks to flick but misses to get hit on the pads.
Done and dusted with the National Anthems and we are all set for the action to begin. The Lankan openers, Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis make their way out to the middle. Fred Klaassen has the new ball in hand. Here we go...
NETHERLANDS (PLAYING XI) - Max O'Dowd, Vikramjit Singh, Bas de Leede, Tom Cooper, Colin Ackermann, Scott Edwards (WK/C), Tim Pringle, Roelof van der Merwe, Timm van der Gugten, Fred Klaassen, Paul van Meekeren.
SRI LANKA (PLAYING XI) - Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Dhananjaya de Silva, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (C), Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Lahiru Kumara (IN FOR Dushmantha Chameera), Maheesh Theekshana, Binura Fernando (IN FOR Pramod Madushan).
Scott Edwards starts by joking he was hoping he lost the toss. Then says he probably would have batted but does not mind chasing. Adds they wanted to win three games of cricket and that is what they will try and do and not think about the NRR.
Dasun Shanaka says it is a used wicket and they want to make best use of it. Informs they have two changes. States they needed the win in their last game and they needed to show they can bounce and they are looking to do good here too.
The target is a stiff one and Lanka have a really good bowling attack. Netherlands have struggled to chase mediocre scores in this tournament so far and we feel this is a little too much for them. Someone will need to play a blinder if they are to chase this down. Lanka on the other hand, will back themselves to defend it. All to play for then in the second half. Stay tuned.
Netherlands were really good for the first 10 overs or so. They hit the right lines and lengths and made it difficult for the Lankans. They did not have a lot of luck on their side as there were a lot of times when things did not go their way. Paul van Meekeren was brilliant. He bowled with a lot of pace and really impressed. The two spinners were also good earlier on but Netherlands just had no answers to the onslaught after the first 10. The lines were also not good and they were a little too
That is a brilliant recovery from the Lankans and they will surely be the happier of the two sides heading into the break. Mendis' innings has given Lanka a real chance of sealing their spot in the next round. He was the mainstay for the Lankans. They lost two or not a lot and found it very difficult to score too in the first half of this innings. However, once Mendis got his eye in, runs started to flow. Charith Asalanka played as the perfect foil to him and the two added fifty-plus to take the
Timm van der Gugten to Wanindu Hasaranga, TWO TO END! Fuller and outside off, this is hit through covers for a couple. A good comeback by the bowler after going for a boundary earlier on. Still though, 9 from the last over. SRI LANKA END WITH 162!
Timm van der Gugten to Chamika Karunaratne, That is a really good effort! On middle, Chamika Karunaratne lofts it down towards long on. The fielder runs in and dives forward but it lands just ahead of him. Good stop in the end. One taken.
Timm van der Gugten to Wanindu Hasaranga, Excellent execution! A yorker around leg, Hasaranga makes room and jams it out to point for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Chamika Karunaratne, Just the one! Singles won't harm Netherlands! On middle, this is hit through mid-wicket for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, ! TAKEN! That is a superb catch to end a brilliant, brilliant innings from Mendis! Single-handedly has taken his side to a score which we feel is really good on this wicket. Timm van der Gugten goes for another yorker but ends up serving a low full toss, Mendis looks to heave it over the leg side but it goes off the top edge towards deep square leg. It is very well taken by Roelof van der Merwe!
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, ! Thumped down the ground! Another over which starts with a boundary! Timm van der Gugten misses the yorker and it ends up being a full toss, it is thumped down the ground and to the long off fence.
Fred Klaassen to Wanindu Hasaranga, Two more! Misfield! 15 from the 19th! Outside off, this is guided towards point. The fielder dives and gets a hand to it. Short third man runs to his right and dives but it goes past him too. Two taken.
Fred Klaassen to Wanindu Hasaranga, A dot! Shorter and outside off, Wanindu Hasaranga swings but misses.
Fred Klaassen to Dasun Shanaka, ! TAKEN! That is where you want the batter to hit on this ground. Straight down the ground. The boundaries are so long, just not easy to clear it. On middle, a slower one. It is heaved down the ground towards long on. Colin Ackermann takes a really good catch tracking back and just ahead of the ropes.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Mendis misses out! That could have easily been three in the over. Mendis moves across, this is a full toss, Mendis heaves but it goes off the inner half through square leg for one.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, ! Two in two! 150 is up and now Lanka will be aiming for over 165. Mendis is into the 70s. Another length ball, Mendis is feeding on such deliveries. He pulls it well over the mid-wicket fence for a biggie. 12 from the first two balls. This could be a massive over.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, ! Yet again, a lot of height on that one but the distance too! Mendis with another biggie and one to begin the over. Pressure on the bowler big time now. Shorter and on middle, Mendis heaves it, it is not off the middle but it sails over the square leg fence.
Bas de Leede to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! TAKEN! That is an easy catch! Bas de Leede good form in this World Cup continues. He gets rid of the dangerous Bhanuka Rajapaksa! A low full toss, almost a yorker. Not easy to hit those. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to whip it but it goes off the toe-end. Tim Pringle takes it at long on. Can they keep Sri Lanka to under 160?
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, Not sure why he would want to play that when he can hit it long down the ground or square of the wicket. Looks to play the paddle scoop but then this is full and on off, he tries to play the reverse paddle but it goes off the toe-end and back to the bowler.
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, ! Into the fence! This time he waits, it is another slower one and shorter. Shanaka waits and then hammers it well over the mid-wicket fence for a biggie.
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, Swing and a miss! A slower one outside off, Dasun Shanaka is early in the heave. He misses.
Bas de Leede to Dasun Shanaka, TWO MORE! Dasun Shanaka is off the pair! Fuller and outside off, Shanaka lofts it over cover and two is taken.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Angled into the pads, Mendis works it towards deep square leg for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, Mendis retains strike! Another good over for Sri Lanka. On middle, this is pulled towards deep mid-wicket.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Follows the boundary with one as this is pushed through covers.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! Fortunate boundary! Frustrating stuff for Netherlands. All these top edges, leading edges and outside edges are just landing in vacant spaces on most occasions. Shorter and on middle, Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to pull, it goes off the top edge and lands over the keeper and into the fine leg fence.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Another couple! Shorter and outside off, this is guided past point for two.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Misfield and two! On middle, this is pushed down to long on. The fielder runs in, he takes his eyes off at the very end and misfields. Two taken.
Timm van der Gugten to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, That goes really close past the off pole! Bhanuka Rajapaksa makes room, this is a slower one. He swings but misses and it just shaves the off pole.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Outside off, this is guided down to third man for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, ! That is beautiful! Fuller and outside off, this is hit nicely over cover, the timing is perfect and it goes for a boundary.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, WIDE SIGNALED BUT A LATE REVIEW IS TAKEN FOR CAUGHT BEHIND! It does pass close to the bat and the pad. NOT ! Nothing on it though and it remains a wide. A review which seemed in hope. Angled into the body, Mendis shuffles across and looks to pull but misses. The keeper takes it and appeals but wide given.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, On the pads, this is heaved, more off the inner half through mid-wicket for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shorter and outside off, this is guided through point for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Two! Fuller and on off, Bhanuka Rajapaksa lifts it over cover and takes two.
Paul van Meekeren to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shorter and angling away. Bhanuka Rajapaksa looks to guide it down to third man but misses.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, ! Lovely placement and that is a big over for Lanka despite a wicket falling on the very first ball! This is short and outside off, Kusal Mendis guides it past point and this one races away to the fence.
Bas de Leede to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Another run as Bhanuka Rajapaksa nudges it around the corner.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Shorter and on middle, Mendis looks to pull, it goes off the inner half through mid-wicket for one.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, ! BANG! That goes over the fence! Fifty for Mendis, solid knock from him. He has held the innings together and holds the key for Lanka! Gets there in style! This is short and on middle, he pulls it over mid-wicket for another biggie. On a wicket where everyone seems to be struggling, he is batting quite easily.
Bas de Leede to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Bhanuka Rajapaksa is off the mark! On off, this is guided past point for one.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, ! EDGED AND TAKEN! There is the wicket Netherlands desperately needed! These two were going along really well. This is on a length and outside off, it lands and moves away. Charith Asalanka slashes at it but it goes off the outside edge and Scott Edwards takes a good catch diving forward. A good innings by Charith Asalanka! He played the supporting role to Mendis. Can Netherlands build on this now?
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Two more to end! This is outside off, it is lofted over cover for two.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, Charith Asalanka makes room, this is very full and on middle, it is carved out through point for one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Floats it up on off, Mendis strokes it down to long off and gets to the other end.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, On middle, defended.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, ! Finds the gap nicely! It is not a big gap but it is hit well! On middle, this is slog swept towards deep mid-wicket and in the gap. Boundary.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Two more! Fifty-run stand up and it is an important one for Lanka. They were in trouble when the two came together but are now taking them to safer shores. They have also got a move on and Lanka will hope the two can continue. Shorter and on middle, this is pulled wide of deep mid-wicket for two.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and on off, Charith Asalanka guides it through point for one more.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, Fuller and outside off, Charith Asalanka lofts it over cover for two.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, On the shorter side, this is pulled over mid-wicket for a couple. A run is now coming off every ball.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, On the shorter side, this is pushed through covers for one.
Fred Klaassen to Charith Asalanka, On the pads, Charith Asalanka flicks it through square leg for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Charith Asalanka, A single to end! Sensible stuff then after the biggie and it is a productive over for the Lankans! On off, this is pushed through covers for one more.
Timm van der Gugten to Charith Asalanka, Two! Angled into the pads, Charith Asalanka works it through mid-wicket and takes two.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, On off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, Shorter and on off, Mendis guides it to point.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, Another one a little too straight, this is worked down to fine leg for two.
Timm van der Gugten to Kusal Mendis, ! Over the fence! Nicely played! On the pads, Mendis whips it, it goes quite high but it has the distance too.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, No timing again! Fuller and on off, Charith Asalanka lifts it over mid off. Takes two.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, Good pace again from Paul van Meekeren! Shorter and outside off, this zips through. Charith Asalanka is beaten as he tries to cut.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, Lands ahead of the fielder again! On middle, Charith Asalanka looks to flick, it hits the splice but lands short of the mid-wicket fielder.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, Beaten yet again! Paul van Meekeren drags his length back and this is bowled outside off. Charith Asalanka slashes but misses.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, ! Up and over! Fuller and outside off, Charith Asalanka lofts it over cover and it goes to the fence. Welcome boundary again. Just as the pressure was building, this boundary comes.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, BEATEN FOR PACE AGAIN! Fuller this time and outside off, Charith Asalanka has a slash at it but misses again.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, Was that a chance? Maybe! On the pads, Charith Asalanka looks to flick, this seems to have gone off the glove and hits the outer part of the glove of the keeper.
DRINKS! Have to say Netherlands will be the happier of the two sides but Sri Lanka are getting a move on now. Netherlands need to break this stand quickly or Lanka can get to over 150 which we feel will be above par. Sri Lanka will now feel the momentum is with them and they would want it to continue.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Two more! Fuller and on middle, Mendis lofts it down towards long on and takes two. Another good over for Lanka. They have stepped on the gas here.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, On the pads, this is clipped down to fine leg for one.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, ! That fielder was quite inside the fence, he probably misjudged it too! That was another half a chance for Netherlands! Shorter and on the body, this is pulled towards fine leg. Vikramjit Singh runs in at first but then has to track back. Does so and then leaps but the ball goes over and for a one-bounce boundary.
Bas de Leede to Kusal Mendis, Bangs this one in outside off, it is cut through point for one.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, Another one that lands short! Yet again luck favoring Lanka. Fuller and on off, Charith Asalanka looks to go over cover but ends up miscuing it towards sweeper cover. It lands short, only one in the end.
Bas de Leede to Charith Asalanka, Good length and on off, defended.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, ! BANG! That is a pressure releasing shot. Really hit that well. This is angled into the pads. Mendis hits it with the angle, he slog sweeps it and it sails over the square leg fence for a biggie. The last ball spoils the over. 50 up for Lanka. It has taken time but has come up.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, Shorter and outside off, this is guided towards short third man for one.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, Just short! Floats it up outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to drive but this goes more off the higher part of the bat and lands just short of the cover fielder.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Another single as this is pushed through covers. Runs really hard to come by for Lanka.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, On the pads, this is nudged on the leg side for one.
Tim Pringle to Charith Asalanka, Flatter and outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to cut but misses.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, That is a top over from Mendis! On middle, flatter, this is defended.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Top edge but safe! On middle, Mendis looks to sweep, this one comes slow off the surface and hence, it goes off the top edge but lands ahead of the bowler who runs ahead.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, On middle, this is worked throug mid-wicket for one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, Soft leading edge! On middle, Charith Asalanka looks to flick but this goes off a soft leading edge back to the bowler. Closed the face of the bat early.
Roelof van der Merwe to Charith Asalanka, BEATEN! Fires this outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to guide it down to third man but misses.
Paul van Meekeren to Dhananjaya de Silva, ! LBW! This gets even better now for Netherlands! Paul van Meekeren is on fire here. Two in two for him. This could be considered as a fortunate wicket. Dhananjaya de Silva might have survived had he reviewed it. Paul van Meekeren though won't care. He goes full yet again, around middle and leg. Dhananjaya de Silva looks to flick but misses and gets hit on the pads. A loud appeal and the finger is raised. Dhananjaya de Silva has a chat with his p
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, ! Not the last ball Paul van Meekeren would have wanted but still, a tremendous over. This is a full toss and Mendis takes full toll of it, he whips it through mid-wicket and this one races away.
Paul van Meekeren to Charith Asalanka, No hat-trick and Charith Asalanka is off the mark! Outside off, Charith Asalanka looks to drive, it goes off a thickish outside edge down to third man for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, ! TIMBER! That is brilliant, just brilliant. Pretty sure Paul van Meekeren would have enjoyed that wicket. Pushed the batter onto the back foot by bowling the last one short and quick. Now goes for the yorker and it is a corker of a yorker at over 145 KPH. Pathum Nissanka is late in getting his bat down. The ball sneaks through and hits the off pole. This is a really good start for the Dutch.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, That is sharp too. Pathum Nissanka was quite hurried! Shorter and on middle, this one gets big on Pathum Nissanka who is hit on the glove as he tries to defend.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, That is quick! On middle, slightly shorter and on middle, Nissanka looks to flick but misses to get hit on the pads.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Nicely played in the end! Mendis steps out but does not get to the pitch of the ball. He still works it over mid-wicket for two. A good 6th for Sri Lanka. They are 36 for 0 after the Powerplay.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, Almost! For now, everything is going Lanka's way! This is angled into the pads. Pathum Nissanka looks to drive but this goes on with the angle, goes past the inside edge and just past the leg pole. The keeper fails to take it and it goes down towards fine leg for three. Byes.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, ! Clears the fence and that will release some pressure! The slog sweep is out, it is on middle, Pathum Nissanka strikes it well and it goes over the square leg fence. Welcome one for Lanka.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Mendis steps out but almost yorks himself, he jams it down to long off for one.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, A low full toss on middle, this is worked wide of the fielder at mid on for two.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Tossed up nicely and on middle, blocked.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, Safe! Outside off, Mendis slashes, this flies off the outside edge but lands short of third man. Only one. End of an action-packed over. Netherlands could have easily had a wicket but still though, a very tidy one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, Just the one. Shorter and on middle, Pathum Nissanka shuffles across and looks to pull, this goes off the inner half towards short fine leg for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, ALMOST! That was so, so close !Firstly a drop! A tough chance though. On middle, fuller, this is thumped back towards the bowler. Paul van Meekeren looks to catch it but this one bursts out and almost deflects onto the stumps at the other end. Mendis would have been short. Netherlands creating chances here.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, This lands safe! That is a lucky escape for Pathum Nissanka! He makes room, this is banged short and Paul van Meekeren follows him. Pathum Nissanka is beaten for pace. It goes off the splice as he tries to pull behind the wicket. The keeper runs in and dives but it lands short.
Paul van Meekeren to Kusal Mendis, On the pads, this is nudged down to fine leg for one.
Paul van Meekeren to Pathum Nissanka, Outside off, Pathum Nissanka guides it down to third man and takes one.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, A dot to end then! On middle, blocked. Steady start from the Lankans.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, ! Nicely swept! This is down the leg side. Mendis sweeps it, keeps it all along the ground and hits it through square leg for a boundary. Roelof van der Merwe is disappointed with himself, he knows that is a very poor ball.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Flatter now and on middle, blocked.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, That is a beauty! A lot of turn there. This is tossed up outside off, Mendis looks to drive but is beaten by the turn away.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Tossed up on off, Mendis pushes it to covers.
Roelof van der Merwe to Kusal Mendis, Two! On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for two.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, A beauty to end! Drags his length back, this lands and moves away from the middle pole. Pathum is beaten as he tries to defend.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Uppish again but in the gap! On middle, Pathum Nissanka looks to go for the heave, similar to the shot Mendis played on the very first ball. This too goes off the inner half wide of mid on. This is chased down and only two.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, On middle, Mendis tucks it around the corner and takes one.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Another one outside off, quite wide, Mendis makes another leave.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, Angles this one from the off pole, left alone.
Fred Klaassen to Kusal Mendis, ! Uppish but in the gap! First boundary of the game and that is a good start to the over. On middle, Mendis has a hack across the line, it goes more off the inner half but past mid on and into the fence.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, Angled into the pads, Pathum Nissanka works it to square leg.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, Safe! Now tosses it up even more but this is a little too full, Pathum drives it uppishly but well short of cover.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, That is a beauty! Slows it up, lands it on off, draws Pathum Nissanka forward to defend, this lands and spins away. Beats the outside edge of the bat.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, Shorter and on middle, Mendis works it through mid-wicket and gets off the mark.
Tim Pringle to Kusal Mendis, On middle, this one is pushed through, Mendis defends it.
Tim Pringle to Pathum Nissanka, On middle, Pathum Nissanka works it through square leg and takes one.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, A single to end and that is a tidy start from Fred Klaassen! On the pads, this is worked down to fine leg for one.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Half an appeal but turned down! Leg stump line,m tails back in, Pathum Nissanka looks to flick but misses to get hit on the pads. Going down leg.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Better! This time gets it to shape back in from around off, Pathum plays it to mid on.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Yet again some inward shape for Fred Klaassen but the line is once again a little too straight. Pathum Nissanka misses the flick and gets hit on the pad for another time in the over.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Lanka and Pathum Nissanka are underway! This time Fred Klaassen angles it across the off pole. Pathum Nissanka strokes it on the up through covers for two.
Fred Klaassen to Pathum Nissanka, Some swing to begin with for Fred Klaassen! The line though is a little too straight, Pathum Nissanka looks to flick but misses to get hit on the pads.
Done and dusted with the National Anthems and we are all set for the action to begin. The Lankan openers, Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis make their way out to the middle. Fred Klaassen has the new ball in hand. Here we go...
NETHERLANDS (PLAYING XI) - Max O'Dowd, Vikramjit Singh, Bas de Leede, Tom Cooper, Colin Ackermann, Scott Edwards (WK/C), Tim Pringle, Roelof van der Merwe, Timm van der Gugten, Fred Klaassen, Paul van Meekeren.
SRI LANKA (PLAYING XI) - Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Dhananjaya de Silva, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (C), Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Lahiru Kumara (IN FOR Dushmantha Chameera), Maheesh Theekshana, Binura Fernando (IN FOR Pramod Madushan).
Scott Edwards starts by joking he was hoping he lost the toss. Then says he probably would have batted but does not mind chasing. Adds they wanted to win three games of cricket and that is what they will try and do and not think about the NRR.
Dasun Shanaka says it is a used wicket and they want to make best use of it. Informs they have two changes. States they needed the win in their last game and they needed to show they can bounce and they are looking to do good here too.