With five wickets lost for only 75 runs in 19 overs during their World Cup encounter against Sri Lanka, the Netherlands are in serious trouble. The best bowler in Sri Lanka thus far is Kasun Rajitha, who has taken three wickets for a cost of fifteen runs.
Within the first ten overs, the Netherlands lost three of their best batters, setting up a dismal start to their innings. The first person out was Vikramjit Singh, who was overtaken by Theekshana after 12 rounds. Max O’Dowd trailed shortly after, with Rajitha blocking his path. Then, off Madushanka, skipper Scott Edwards was out for 23 after being caught at mid-on.
Ackermann was replaced by 19 after Rajitha struck again, but the Netherlands were able to partially recover because of a partnership between Colin Ackermann and Bas de Leede. The Netherlands were five down for 75 runs when Theekshana dismissed de Leede for 10.
If the Netherlands were to regain control of the game, they would require a significant alliance. Sri Lanka’s bowling assault appears to be highly threatening, especially though they possess seven wickets in hand.
