Debutants' Guide: The Netherlands’ rise to the T20 World Cup

The Netherlands have had a rich vein of history with the ICC Women’s World Cup, making four consecutive appearances in the competition between 1988 and 2000. However, this year they are set to make their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup debut in the 2026 edition starting June 12.

Here is the story of how they got here, the stars to watch, and the form they bring into their maiden global T20I campaign.

Netherlands celebrate qualification to Women's T20 World Cup 2026 // (Photo by Thananuwat Srirasant-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

The Road to T20WC 2026:

The Netherlands' journey was a marathon, spanning three phases of qualification across various ICC tournaments.Their quest began at the Division One Europe Qualifier in 2025. Finishing second behind Scotland, they secured their progression to the global stage, proving they were the rising force of the continent.

At the Emerging Nations Trophy in late 2025, the Dutch side signaled their intent. Winning five out of seven matches, they finished third, highlighted by the consistent run-scoring of Sterre Kalis.

The dream became reality at the Global Qualifier in Nepal earlier this year. Facing high-pressure scenarios, they navigated a "must-win" group stage, including a heart-stopping two-run victory over the hosts. On January 28, a decisive victory over the USA officially confirmed their debut in the marquee women’s tournament of 2026.

Upon qualifying for the World Cup, Netherlands skipper Babette de Leede said, “Qualifying for our first‑ever ICC Women's T20 World Cup fills us with an incredible sense of pride and excitement. It feels extra special because, in many ways, it’s almost a ‘home’ World Cup for us. We’re hoping to see a sea of orange in the stands with our families, friends, fans and everyone who has supported Dutch women’s cricket over the years.”

“Stepping onto that stage for the very first time will be a milestone for women's cricket in the Netherlands, and we hope it inspires young Dutch players to dream big and believe that they, too, can one day represent a successful national team."

The Squad:

Babette de Leede (c), 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.

Players to Watch:

Captain Babette de Leede leads a balanced 15-player squad that mixes veteran experience with fearless youth, however there are more who play a key role for the Dutch side.

Sterre Kalis (Batter)

A household name in Dutch cricket, Kalis brings vital "home" knowledge to the tournament. Having played county cricket for Yorkshire, she is intimately familiar with English conditions, calling Leeds her home since 2020. She has featured in 62 T20Is for her nation and amassed over 1850 runs so far. She will be crucial for the Dutch top-order at the Women’s T20 World Cup.

Isabel van der Woning (Bowler)

The breakout star of the Nepal qualifiers. With nine wickets in the tournament and a clinical spell of 4/14 against the hosts Nepal, she is a potent threat in an impressive Dutch attack. The 24-year-old has made 35 appearances for Netherlands across formats and will be key for them at the T20 World Cup.

Frédérique Overdijk (All-rounder)

A history-maker who held the world record for the best WT20I bowling figures (7/3). Her ability to swing the ball early will be crucial in English  conditions. The 25-year-old has 50 wickets in 75 appearances for her nation across formats.

Form Guide and upcoming fixtures:

The Netherlands enter Group 1 as underdogs, but their recent stats suggest a side that thrives under pressure.

In their last 10 T20Is leading into the tournament, the Netherlands have won seven, including high-pressure victories against Zimbabwe and Nepal to secure qualification at the Global Qualifier.

They will now take on Bangladesh and Scotland in a tri-series as preparation for the marquee women’s T20I tournament with the same squad as announced for the Women’s T20 World Cup.

Netherlands’ schedule at Women’s T20 World Cup:

The debutants face a steep learning curve in Group 1, featuring six-time champions and heavyweights of the tournament.

June 14: v Bangladesh, Edgbaston, 10:30 AM

June 17: v India, Leeds, 2:30 PM

June 20: v Australia, Hampshire, 10:30 AM

June 25: v South Africa, Bristol, 6:30 PM

June 27: v Pakistan, Bristol, 10:30 AM

*All timings are as per local time