Netherlands and Uganda look for improved batting show

Overview
The Netherlands v Uganda
Kampong Cricket Club, Utrecht
Playoff Semi Final 1, WT20Q 2018
Thursday, 12 July, 10:00 GMT, 12:00 Local

After the three rounds of group-stage matches, which didn’t go to plan for them, the Netherlands and Uganda will now lock horns in a fight for the fifth-place when they meet in the first play-off semi-final in Utrecht.

The Netherlands finished last in the Group A table after losing all their three matches – to the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh and Papua New Guinea.

Their batters let them down in the main. After putting up a good score in the opening match, they were bowled out for 42 and 85 in the next two games.

In the group matches, only Sterre Kalis managed to put up a good score, in the first match against UAE. The opener smashed a brilliant 68-ball 88* and lifted her team to 137/3, which the visiting side chased down in the last over.

If the home side want to progress, they will want their batters to up their game and for Kalis to score big again.

Uganda have a slightly better record. In their three group matches, they recorded a victory over Thailand, but lost the two matches against Scotland and Ireland.

However, considering their scores, Uganda have a lot to do. In all the three matches, they folded for less than 100, with 78/8 their highest total. They too will face a similar problem in their next encounter and a better batting performance will be the key.

Uganda's top-order batters have failed to provide a good start in any of the matches. Not even once have their top four scored in double-digits. Getting off to a good start will be on Uganda's to-do list when they face the Netherlands.

Key players

Sterre Kalis (The Netherlands): The Netherlands opener's unbeaten 88 in the opening game against UAE has been one of the tournament highlights. However, in the next two games, she scored only 15 and 6. A return to form will help her side no end.

**Immaculate Nakisuuyi (Uganda):**After failing to make an impact in the first game, Nakisuuyi bounced back in the second game with returns of 2/8 and a run-a-ball 21. In the last match, she contributed a 10-ball 12 with the bat and also chipped in with a wicket. Uganda will hope for the all-rounder to keep up the good work.

Squads

The Netherlands: Heather Siegers (c), Cher van Slobbe, Esther Corder, Caroline de Fouw, Babette de Leede (wk), Denise Hannema, Sterre Kalis, Lisa Klokgieters, Mariska Kornet, Juliet Post, Annemijn Thomson, Robine Rijke, Silver Siegers, Jolien van Vliet

Uganda: Kevin Awino (c), Joyce Mary Apio, Consylate Aweko, Getrude Candiru, Siadat Kemigisha, Janet Mbabazi, Rita Musamali, Frankline Najjumba, Immaculate Nakisuuyi, Mary Nalule, Prico Nakitende, Stephanie Nampiina, Carol Namugenyi, Rachael Ntono