Heading into this game, all eyes were on the Netherlands, with the pressure on Sri Lanka to prevent another major upset in the tournament. The Dutch team came with determination, but when it mattered most, they crumbled under pressure. Their bowlers failed to execute their plans, allowing Sri Lanka to set a massive target, which proved insurmountable against Sri Lanka’s formidable bowling attack. The 2014 champions secured a comprehensive victory, winning by 83 runs in the 38th match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, played at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in St Lucia in April.
Sri Lanka’s innings started on a shaky note, but they eventually turned the tide and posted a formidable total. After losing Nissanka early, Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis kept the scoring rate high during the powerplay until Kamindu was dismissed while attempting a big shot. Kusal Mendis continued to play aggressively before he was dislodged. The middle order stepped up with strong performances from Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, and Angelo Mathews. Mathews and Wanindu Hasaranga finished the innings strongly, leading Sri Lanka to surpass 200 runs, marking the highest T20I total at this ground and the second highest for Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup history.
The Netherlands bowlers struggled, allowing a few substantial partnerships that let the Sri Lankan batters settle and then accelerate. Their death bowling was subpar, and they seemed to wilt under the pressure of a crucial match.
The Dutch openers started their innings strongly, with Michael Levitt coming out all guns blazing. However, Sri Lanka knew that a couple of quick wickets could shift the game in their favour. Unfortunately, Max O’Dowd was dismissed cheaply, and Vikramjit Singh also fell early while attempting to score quickly. Levitt tried to accelerate the innings but eventually lost his wicket to Theekshana.
With two new batters at the crease, the Netherlands struggled to find their footing. Wickets kept tumbling, and Dutch skipper Scott Edwards could only watch as his teammates fell around him. Despite his prolonged stay at the crease, the Netherlands showed little intent to chase down the imposing total, ultimately falling short by a significant margin.