The Netherlands cricket team will host New Zealand for a two-match T20I series in August. As per the latest announcement by their respective cricket boards, Netherlands and New Zealand is set to feature in the two-match series on the 4th and 6th of August at the Voorburg Cricket Club at Hague.
New Zealand’s long European tour will culminate with these two T20Is. The Kiwi tour commences starting June, where they visit England for three tests, followed by as many ODIs and T20Is in Ireland; two T20Is and a solitary ODI in Scotland.
Reacting to this, Netherlands coach Ryan Campbell has said that they have always aimed at playing against the best white-ball teams globally, and it would be a golden opportunity for the young Dutch players to showcase their skills against quality opposition like New Zealand.
Both New Zealand and Netherlands are currently engaged in a three-match ODI affair, which ends on Monday at Hamilton.
After the solitary T20I in Napier was washed out, the hosts defeated the Dutch convincingly in the first ODI at Mount Maunganui. The Kiwis also won the 2nd ODI at Hamilton convincingly by 118 runs to clinch the series on Saturday.
Admiring New Zealand’s decision to tour the European country, Campbell said that it shows the kind of bond both nations share and expected the home crowd to enjoy the contest between the two sides.
“The chance to play the best white-ball teams in the world has always been the goal for this team. To test our young players against them and showcase our skills in front of our home fans is so extremely exciting”, Campbell stated, according to Cricbuzz.
“The Black Caps coming to The Netherlands again shows the respect we are building in world cricket, and I hope all Dutch fans come out and enjoy the contest”, the Dutch team’s coach further added.
On the other hand, the New Zealand team’s coach Gary Stead admitted to being excited ahead of this tour. He also insisted that the full-member nations should often play against the associate teams. It plays a significant role in their growth as a cricketing nation, thereby ensuring the long-term benefits of world cricket.
“We’re really excited to be touring the Netherlands. Playing against associate teams as a full member nation is a vital part of helping them grow, which can only benefit the world game long term”, the Black Caps’ coach said.