New Zealand secured their second successive victory by defeating Netherlands by 99 runs at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Monday.
Mitchell Santner was the star of the show, taking five wickets. New Zealand's batting lineup shone brightly, with Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, and Tom Latham all notching up half-centuries. They set a target of 323 for the Netherlands.
Despite some early setbacks for the Netherlands in their chase, Colin Ackermann's valiant effort (69) gave them hope. However, the target proved to be too challenging, and they were bowled out for 223 in 46.3 overs, with spinner Santner claiming an impressive 5-59.
New Zealand's batting was well-structured, with contributions from Devon Conway (32), Young (70), Ravindra (51), Daryl Mitchell (48), and Latham (53). The Dutch bowlers initially applied pressure, with Aryan Dutt and Ryan Klein delivering three straight maiden overs after winning the toss and electing to bowl. However, Young and Conway broke free from the shackles.
Conway played aggressively but eventually fell to Roelof van der Merwe, caught by Bas de Leede in the deep. On the other hand, Young displayed patience and notched up his sixth half-century before smashing a massive six off Colin Ackermann in the 22nd over.
Young continued to accumulate runs alongside the in-form Ravindra. However, his innings came to an end as he mistimed a shorter delivery from Paul van Meekeren, finding De Leede at mid-on.
Ravindra, who had previously scored a rapid century against defending champion England, followed up with a composed fifty. Unfortunately, he edged Van der Merwe off his legs to captain Scott Edwards after reaching the milestone.
Daryl Mitchell and skipper Latham maintained a brisk scoring rate, but their dismissals slowed down the proceedings. In the final three overs, Santner's unbeaten 36 from 17 deliveries propelled New Zealand to add 50 runs, ultimately setting a challenging target for the Netherlands.
