World Cup Bound: Dutch Women Make History in Nepal as Bangladesh Cruises to ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026
By Sachit Subba • Cricket • Jan 28, 2026 15:06 PM • 23 views
KATHMANDU — History was made in the Himalayas today. The Netherlands secured a maiden spot at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, Bangladesh booked their ticket to England with a clinical display in the qualifiers.
The two sides emerged triumphant from the high-stakes Super Six stage in Nepal, locking in their spots for the marquee event later this year. For Bangladesh, qualification is a continuation of a legacy dating back to 2014; for the Dutch, it marks a watershed moment—their first-ever entry into the main draw of the tournament.
Dutch Delight: A Historic Breakthrough
At the Tribhuvan University Ground in Kirtipur, the Netherlands made history for Associate cricket. They defeated the USA by 21 runs via the DLS method. This win confirmed their arrival on the big stage.
After choosing to bowl, the Dutch attack was both disciplined and potent. Hannah Landheer took 3 for 30, while Caroline de Lange supported her with 2 for 27. Their combined efforts stifled the American lineup, restricting them to 129 for 7 from their 20 overs.
In reply, the Dutch quickly got ahead of the asking rate. This was crucial with grey clouds looming. Heather Siegers gave an initial spark, hitting 28 off just 12 balls. Phebe Molkenboer then anchored the innings and remained unbeaten on 46 when rain halted play in the 12th over. At 90 for 2, the Dutch were comfortably ahead of par. Rain did not relent, sealing a famous victory and sparking jubilant scenes in their camp.
The Tigresses Roar: Bangladesh Hold Firm
Across the valley in Mulpani, Bangladesh kept their tournament record perfect. They overcame a shaky start and dismantled Thailand by 39 runs.
Sent in to bat, the Tigresses faced an immediate crisis. They lost opener Dilara Akter on the first ball and Sharmin Akhter soon after. Two wickets down with almost nothing on the board, the pressure was immense. However, the middle order showed grit and class.
Wicketkeeper-batter Juairiya Ferdous (56 off 45) joined Sobhana Mostary (59 off 42) in a match-defining partnership of 110 runs. Their counter-attack stabilized the innings and pushed Bangladesh to a competitive 165 for 8, despite a late flurry of wickets.
Thailand’s chase never gained momentum against a relentless Bangladeshi attack. Fast bowler Marufa Akter impressed with 3 for 25. Ritu Moni and Shorna Akter took two wickets each, leaving Thailand well short of the target.
The Road to England 2026
With the 2026 edition set to expand to 12 teams, the stakes are higher than ever. Bangladesh and the Netherlands can now begin preparing for the English summer after successfully navigating the qualifiers.
However, the drama in Nepal is far from over. Two spots remain in the Super Sixes. Now that the frontrunners have qualified, a fierce four-way battle is set between Scotland, Ireland, the USA, and Thailand. All are desperate to join the elite in England later this year.
