Zimbabwe delivered an impressive all-round performance to defeat the Netherlands by 29 runs in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup warm-up match, with R
yan Burl’s late surge with the bat proving the difference.
After winning the toss, Zimbabwe elected to bat and got off to a flying start, racing to 50 in just 4.4 overs. They carried the momentum through the powerplay, reaching 64 for 2 after six overs, before settling into a steady rhythm during the middle phase. The 100-run mark came up in the 12.3rd over, while a strong finish saw them cross 150 in the penultimate over.
Ryan Burl anchored the death overs with a calm yet powerful innings. The left-hander remained unbeaten on 50 off 31 balls, striking six boundaries at a strike rate of 161.29, as Zimbabwe posted a competitive total of 178 for 9 in their 20 overs.
In response, the Netherlands were rocked early by Zimbabwe’s disciplined bowling. Four wickets fell inside the powerplay, leaving the Dutch side struggling at 49 for 4 after six overs. Although they reached 100 in 13.4 overs, the required run rate kept climbing as wickets continued to fall at regular intervals.
Despite brief resistance from the middle order, the Netherlands were unable to recover from their poor start. Zimbabwe tightened the screws in the death overs, eventually bowling out the Netherlands for 149 in the final over to seal a comfortable victory.
The win underlined Zimbabwe’s batting depth and their ability to apply sustained pressure with the ball, while the Netherlands were left to reflect on a costly powerplay that ultimately decided the match.
Match Summary
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Warm-Up Match
Zimbabwe 178/9 (20 overs)
Netherlands 149 all out (20 overs)
Zimbabwe won by 29 runs
Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Toss: Zimbabwe elected to bat