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Max O’Dowd Powers Netherlands to Historic ODI Run Chase Against Scotland in CWC League 2
Netherlands Rewrite Record Books in Epic CWC League 2 Encounter
In an unforgettable showdown at Forthill, Dundee, Max O’Dowd led the Netherlands to a historic victory by chasing down a monumental 370-run target against Scotland in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2. His sensational 158-run knock helped the Dutch clinch a thrilling win with just four balls to spare, marking one of the highest successful run chases in the history of ODI cricket.
This landmark result didn’t just secure two points for the Netherlands—it etched their name into cricketing folklore. With this victory, the Dutch now rank third in the all-time list of highest successful ODI run chases, behind only South Africa’s legendary pursuits in 2006 and 2016.
George Munsey’s Mammoth 191 Guides Scotland to 369/6
Scotland Dominate First Innings with Aggressive Strokeplay
Put into bat first, Scotland appeared to be in complete command thanks to a blistering innings from opener George Munsey. The left-hander blazed his way to a magnificent 191 off 150 balls, studded with 14 fours and 11 sixes. His powerful knock laid the foundation for a massive total.
Captain Matthew Cross played a crucial supporting role with a fluent 59 off 47, while Michael Leask added the finishing touches with a brisk 28* off 15 balls. Scotland’s final score of 369/6 seemed unassailable at the halfway stage.
Read more about top individual innings in CWC League 2 history
O’Dowd’s 158 Anchors Netherlands’ Monumental Chase
Record-Breaking Chase Led by Calm, Aggressive Batting
Despite the imposing total, the Netherlands showed no signs of pressure. The chase began with a solid opening partnership of 44 runs as Michael Levitt provided early momentum. But it was Max O’Dowd who shouldered the majority of the responsibility.
O’Dowd’s commanding 158 off 130 balls, which included 13 boundaries and 4 sixes, kept the Dutch innings on track. While wickets fell at intervals—Cachet (3), Edwards (32), Barresi (13)—O’Dowd continued unfazed.
He received crucial support from the middle order. Teja Nidamanuru struck a valuable 51 from 42 balls, while Noah Croes contributed a lightning-quick 50 off just 29 deliveries. Their acceleration in the middle overs ensured the required run rate never spiraled out of control.
Scotland’s Safyaan Sharif tried to stem the flow with a return of 3/62, but with little backing from the rest of the bowling attack, the Dutch kept chipping away at the target.
Netherlands Break Into Top 3 of All-Time Highest ODI Chases
This run chase now stands as the third-highest successful ODI chase in cricket history:
| Team | Target | Score Achieved | Opponent | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Africa | 435 | 438/9 | Australia | 2006 |
| South Africa | 372 | 372/6 | Australia | 2016 |
| Netherlands | 370 | 374/6 | Scotland | 2025 |
| India | 360 | 362/1 | Australia | 2013 |
| England | 361 | 364/4 | West Indies | 2019 |
With this incredible feat, the Netherlands now sit among elite ODI sides known for audacious chases, proving that associate nations are more than capable of delivering on the big stage.
View the official ICC ODI records on successful run chases
Match Summary: Netherlands vs Scotland – CWC League 2, Dundee
Venue: Forthill, Dundee
Result: Netherlands won by 4 wickets
Player of the Match: Max O’Dowd (158 off 130)
Scotland: 369/6 (George Munsey 191, Cross 59; van der Merwe 2/62)
Netherlands: 374/6 in 49.2 overs (O’Dowd 158, Croes 50; Sharif 3/62)
A Statement Win for Dutch Cricket
The Netherlands’ victory over Scotland will be remembered as one of the defining moments of CWC League 2 and Dutch cricket history. Not only did they pull off a world-class chase, but they also showcased depth, composure, and batting brilliance across the board.
As the road to the 2027 ICC World Cup intensifies, this match will serve as both an inspiration and a warning to other teams: underestimate the Netherlands at your own risk.
