MUSCAT: Netherlands captain Scott Edwards’ scintillating knock of 99 off 55 balls inspired his team to a commanding 50-run victory over Oman at the Oman Cricket Academy ground on Thursday night, levelling the three-match T20I series 1-1.
The defeat also ended Oman’s impressive five-match winning streak at home, which included four consecutive victories in the World Cup Cricket League 2 ODI tri-series and a win in the first T20I against the Dutchmen.
After being sent into bat, the Netherlands recovered from a shaky start to post a formidable 185/6. Edwards was the backbone of the innings, smashing seven fours and five sixes. His partnerships with Max O'Dowd (23) and later Noah Croes (28* off 18) ensured the Dutch set a daunting target.
Oman's bowlers struggled to contain the Dutch skipper, with Jay Odedra (2/13) and Shakeel Ahmed (1/23) being the key performers.
Oman’s chase faltered early as their skipper Jatinder Singh fell for 2, and they were reduced to 8/2 within two overs. Aamir Kaleem (36 off 22) and Hammad Mirza (23 off 18) attempted to stabilise the innings, but the Netherlands' disciplined bowling, led by Colin Ackermann (3/15) and Roelof van der Merwe (1/11), kept the hosts in check. Shakeel Ahmed (30*) and Jay Odedra (25*) added a spirited 47-run partnership for the eighth wicket, but the target proved insurmountable as Oman finished on 135/7.
The win sets up a exciting decider in the third T20I on Saturday, with both teams vying for the series trophy.
Brief scores: Netherlands: 185/6 (Scott Edwards 99, Noah Croes 28*; Jay Odedra 2/13) beat Oman: 135/7 (Aamir Kaleem 36, Shakeel Ahmed 30*; Colin Ackermann 3/15).
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