Ireland Women vs Netherlands Women – 2025 ICC Women's T20 World Cup Europe Division 1 Qualifier Preview

Date: 26 August 2025
Time: 14:45 GMT
Venue: Hazelaarweg, Rotterdam
Format: T20

Match Overview

The Netherlands Women and Ireland Women are set to lock horns in a crucial T20 clash at the Hazelaarweg in Rotterdam. This match is part of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Europe Division 1 Qualifier, a tournament that promises to be a high-stakes contest for qualification to the global stage.

With both teams having shown flashes of brilliance in the competition so far, this match is expected to be a tightly contested affair. The Dutch, led by their experienced campaigners, are looking to build momentum, while Ireland are eager to prove their mettle and push their way up the standings.

Team Form & Recent Performances

Netherlands Women

Netherlands Women have had a mixed tournament so far. They began with a strong 43-run win over Ireland in Match 1, but have since struggled with consistency. Their most recent win came in Match 8, where they chased down 167 with 29 balls to spare. However, they have also experienced heavy defeats, including a 202-run loss to Ireland in Match 6. Their bowling unit has been inconsistent at times, but their batting has shown potential when the occasion demands.

Key performers to watch:

• Stafanie Taylor – A versatile all-rounder who can anchor the innings and contribute with the ball.
• Sterre Kalis – A wicketkeeper-batter with a knack of scoring quickly and anchoring the middle order.

Ireland Women

Ireland Women have been in fine form in the tournament, with notable victories in Matches 3, 4, 5, and 7. In Match 3, they chased 109 in just 4 balls, a testament to their explosive batting. Their most significant win came in Match 7, where they defeated the Netherlands by 179 runs, a result that boosted their confidence greatly. Ireland’s balanced approach, with strong batting and a disciplined bowling attack, has been key to their success.

Key performers to watch:

• Leah Paul – A power-hitter who can change the game in a few overs.
• Gaby Lewis – A consistent opening batter who is capable of anchoring the innings.
• Mairead O'Callaghan – A wicketkeeper-batter with a growing reputation in the T20 format.

Head-to-Head

The head-to-head record between Ireland and the Netherlands in this tournament has been particularly intriguing. Ireland have had the upper hand, with a 179-run win in Match 7 and a 63-run victory in Match 5. However, the Netherlands won the opening match of the tournament by 43 runs. The recent form of Ireland suggests they are the stronger side at the moment, but the Dutch will be eager to avenge their earlier defeat.

Pitch and Conditions

The Hazelaarweg pitch in Rotterdam is generally considered to be a balanced one, with good assistance for both batters and bowlers. The overcast skies and possible light breeze could offer some support to the spinners, but the overall conditions are expected to be conducive for a high-scoring encounter.

Prediction & Fantasy Tips

Given the form and recent performances, Ireland Women are the slight favorites to win this match. Their disciplined bowling and explosive batting make them a difficult side to contain, especially on a pitch that suits aggressive cricket.

Fantasy Pick:

• Captain (C): Gaby Lewis (IRE) – Consistent performer with match-winning potential.
• All-rounder (P): Stafanie Taylor (NED) – Provides balance with both bat and ball.
• Wicketkeeper (WK): Mairead O'Callaghan (IRE) – Key batter who can change the game.
• Bowler: Mandy van de Meene (NED) – A reliable seamer with the ability to take wickets.

Final Verdict

This match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two evenly matched teams. Ireland’s recent dominance and strong batting depth give them an edge, but the Netherlands will be determined to show improvement and put up a strong fight. With the Hazelaarweg pitch likely to favor aggressive play, this could be a high-scoring game that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.

Prediction: Ireland Women to win by 8-10 runs.
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