Netherlands aim to build T20WC 2026 momentum in Bangladesh

Having qualified for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in July, the Netherlands will be gearing up for the marquee tournament next year in familiar, subcontinental conditions with a series in Bangladesh.

“It's a great warm-up for us heading into the World Cup,” Netherlands skipper Scott Edwards told reporters ahead of the first T20I.

The Dutch had featured in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in India a couple of years back, and had impressed with their run that had seen them stage a stunning win over South Africa and overcome Bangladesh.

With their upcoming three-match series against Bangladesh, Netherlands are looking to build momentum prior to the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

“After qualifying for the World Cup, getting match experience in Asia was one of our first goals. Playing three T20s against a strong side like Bangladesh in their home conditions is perfect for our preparation.”

Bangladesh captain Litton Das meanwhile has his eyes trained on the immediate challenge before the Tigers in the form of the Asia Cup.

Litton stated that his side are working on ways to improve their batting ahead of the continental tournament, which has Bangladesh slotted with Afghanistan, Hong Kong and Sri Lanka for the group stage.

“If we lose, we lose [against Netherlands]. What matters is how well we play,” Litton said.

“Abu Dhabi will be batting-friendly, like Sylhet. But to score 200-250, we also need to build a habit.

“Conditions there are quite similar to Sylhet. We've trained under dew here, so the players know what to expect.”

All three T20Is between the two sides will be played in Sylhet between August 30 and September 3.