Get the full match preview of Nepal vs Netherlands in ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 on June 4, 2025, at Forthill, Dundee. Includes team squads, pitch report, key players, and prediction for this crucial ODI encounter.
The ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 has brought cricketing nations closer to their dream of participating in the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup. In one of the most anticipated fixtures of the series, Nepal faces the Netherlands at the picturesque Forthill Cricket Ground in Dundee, Scotland. This match is not just a regular ODI encounter—it is a battle of rising cricketing nations determined to stamp their authority on the world stage.
With both teams boasting a blend of youth and experience, this League 2 fixture promises exciting cricket, individual brilliance, and crucial points toward World Cup qualification. Here’s an in-depth look at the teams, players to watch, historical context, and everything fans need to know about this match.
Overview of ICC Cricket World Cup League 2
The ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 is a crucial tournament that acts as a stepping stone for Associate cricketing nations looking to qualify for the next ODI World Cup. Running from 2023 to 2027, this competition features tri-nation series formats played across various venues around the world.
League Format:
- Each team plays the others multiple times in round-robin matches.
- Points are awarded for wins, with Net Run Rate (NRR) playing a decisive role in rankings.
- Top teams advance toward the 2026 World Cup Qualifier tournament.
Match Details:Forthill Cricket Ground
- Match: Netherlands vs Nepal
- Tournament: ICC Cricket World Cup League 2
- Date: June 4, 2025
- Venue: Forthill Cricket Stadium, Dundee
- Time: 3:00 PM (Pakistan Time) / 11:00 AM (UK Local Time)
- Match Type: One Day International (ODI)
Netherlands Cricket Team – Squad Analysis
Leadership and Strategy
The Netherlands cricket team is captained by the reliable Scott Edwards, who also dons the gloves as the primary wicketkeeper. His calm demeanor and experience make him a pivotal figure in both the batting and fielding departments.
Full Squad
- Scott Edwards (Captain & Wicketkeeper)
- Max O’Dowd
- Michael Levitt
- Noah Croes
- Teja Nidamanuru
- Vikramjit Singh
- Roelof van der Merwe
- Zach Lion-Cachet
- Wesley Barresi
- Aryan Dutt
- Ben Fletcher
- Kyle Klein
- Paul van Meekeren
- Shariz Ahmad
- Vivian Kingma
Key Players to Watch
- Max O’Dowd: A fluent top-order batsman capable of building long innings.
- Roelof van der Merwe: A seasoned all-rounder who adds immense value in both departments.
- Paul van Meekeren: The spearhead of the bowling attack, known for his pace and variations.
Nepal Cricket Team – Squad Analysis
Leadership and Vision
Nepal is led by the youthful yet experienced Rohit Paudel, who has taken the reins of Nepalese cricket with maturity beyond his years. With a group of dynamic young players, Nepal is one of the most exciting Associate nations on the rise.
Full Squad
- Rohit Paudel (Captain)
- Aasif Sheikh (Wicketkeeper)
- Aarif Sheikh
- Bhim Sharki
- Dev Khanal
- Kushal Bhurtel
- Basir Ahamad
- Dipendra Singh Airee
- Gulshan Jha
- Kushal Malla
- Sompal Kami
- Anil Sah
- Arjun Saud
- Karan KC
- Lalit Rajbanshi
- Rijan Dhakal
- Sagar Dhakal
- Sandeep Lamichhane
Key Players to Watch
- Sandeep Lamichhane: The leg-spin wizard whose variations can rattle any batting order.
- Kushal Bhurtel: A powerful opener who gives explosive starts.
- Dipendra Singh Airee: A reliable all-rounder known for match-winning performances.
Head-to-Head Record:Nepal vs Netherlands
While both nations have faced each other a few times in ODIs and T20s, the rivalry is gaining intensity due to frequent meetings in ICC events. The Netherlands have traditionally had a slight upper hand, but Nepal’s recent performances, especially in big matches, have narrowed the gap.
Past ODI Record:
- Total Matches Played: 5
- Netherlands Wins: 3
- Nepal Wins: 2
Their last meeting was a nail-biter, with Nepal clinching a close win, thanks to disciplined bowling and a composed chase.
Pitch and Weather Report:Nepal vs Netherlands
Pitch Conditions:
- Offers early seam movement in the morning.
- Good bounce for pacers.
- As the match progresses, spinners can extract some turn.
- Batting becomes easier under the sun once the pitch settles.
Weather Forecast:
- Temperature: Around 17°C
- Sky: Partly cloudy with sunny intervals
- Rain: Low chance (less than 10%)
- Wind: Moderate breeze (could aid swing bowlers)
Tactical Matchups:Nepal vs Netherlands
1. Opening Pair Battles
- Max O’Dowd vs Sompal Kami/Karan KC
- Kushal Bhurtel vs Vivian Kingma/van Meekeren
Both teams rely on solid starts. The openers’ ability to survive the new ball and rotate strike will be crucial.
2. Spin Showdown
- Sandeep Lamichhane vs Dutch middle-order
- Roelof van der Merwe vs Nepali power-hitters
Spin will play a key role in the middle overs. Whoever controls this phase might swing the game in their favor.
3. Death Overs Execution
- Netherlands’ death bowling vs Kushal Malla & Airee
- Nepal’s pace attack vs van der Merwe & Edwards
With batting depth in both teams, death overs could witness fireworks, and effective yorkers will be essential.
What’s at Stake?
This isn’t just about national pride. The points on offer directly affect the team standings in ICC League 2. A victory here would:
- Help climb the qualification ladder for the 2027 World Cup.
- Boost Net Run Rate.
- Strengthen team morale and chemistry.
Fan Expectations:Nepal vs Netherlands
Fans from both Nepal and the Netherlands are known for their passionate support. The Nepalese cricket community, in particular, is buzzing with excitement on social media, anticipating another memorable performance. Dutch fans are equally optimistic, looking to see their young talents dominate the pitch.
Prediction and Final Thoughts:Nepal vs Netherlands
While it’s hard to predict the outcome of a closely contested match, here are a few scenarios:
- If Netherlands bat first: A score of around 260–280 could be competitive given the conditions.
- If Nepal bat first: Anything above 250 with Sandeep Lamichhane bowling in the second innings could put pressure on the Dutch.
This game is too close to call and will likely be decided by moments of brilliance—be it a sharp run-out, a sensational catch, or a game-turning over.
