Netherlands Announce Historic Squad for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026
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A Historic Milestone for Dutch Cricket
The landscape of international women’s cricket is set to witness a new chapter as the Netherlands Women’s side prepares for their maiden appearance at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Following a spectacular qualification run during the Global Qualifiers in Nepal earlier this year, the Dutch side is officially ready to compete among the elite 12 teams in England and Wales.
The journey to this moment has been one of grit and determination. As part of a competitive qualification path, the Netherlands secured their spot alongside Bangladesh, Ireland, and Scotland, proving they belong on the world stage. Now, as they prepare for their opening group match on June 12, the anticipation within the camp is palpable.
A Balanced Squad for the Global Stage
Captain Babette de Leede will lead a squad that perfectly balances emerging talent with seasoned international experience. The team’s official release emphasized that this group has performed with great consistency over the past twelve months, particularly during the ICC World Cup Qualifying Tournaments and the ICC Emerging Nations Tournament.
Speaking on the historic achievement, captain Babette de Leede expressed her enthusiasm: “We are super excited for our first-ever appearance in the ICC T20 World Cup. It will be a great opportunity to compete with the best teams in the world, and to show the talent that we have in the Netherlands on the big stage. Because the tournament is being played close to home in England, we are expecting a massive turnout from our supporters.”
Key Players to Watch
The batting department will rely heavily on a trio of experienced campaigners. Sterre Kalis, Robine Rijke, and Heather Siegers—all of whom have surpassed the 1,000-run mark in T20 Internationals—are expected to provide the stability and firepower needed against world-class bowling attacks. Their ability to anchor the innings will be crucial for the Dutch side.
On the bowling front, the attack will be spearheaded by the team’s all-time leading wicket-taker, Iris Zwilling. Notably, Zwilling enters the tournament with a personal milestone in sight; she could potentially claim her 100th WT20I wicket during the competition. Supporting her are the experienced duo of Caroline de Lange and Hannah Landheer, who add necessary depth and tactical variety to the bowling unit.
The Full Squad List
- Babette de Leede (captain)
- Caroline de Lange
- Frédérique Overdijk
- Hannah Landheer
- Heather Siegers
- Iris Zwilling
- Isabel van der Woning
- Lara Leemhuis
- Myrthe van den Raad
- Phebe Molkenboer
- Robine Rijke
- Rosalie Lawrence
- Sanya Khurana
- Silver Siegers
- Sterre Kalis
Facing the Challenge Ahead
Coach Neil MacRae has voiced his confidence in the group, noting that the players are eager to test themselves against the top ICC nations. The Netherlands finds themselves in a demanding Group 1, which features heavyweights like India, Australia, and South Africa. However, the Dutch are eyeing points in their fixtures against Bangladesh and Pakistan, matches that will be pivotal for their tournament trajectory.
As the countdown to June 12 begins, the “Women in Orange” are not just playing for themselves; they are representing the aspirations of the entire Dutch cricketing community. As Captain de Leede aptly put it, this tournament represents the experience of a lifetime—not only for the players but for the friends, families, and fans who have supported Dutch women’s cricket through every step of its growth.
Stay tuned for more coverage as the Netherlands prepares to make its historic debut on the world stage.
