Scotland were dominant victors against The Netherlands in the European U19 Women’s World Cup qualifiers. The Wildcats overcame the hosts 3-0 in the best-of-three series in Utrecht, securing their place in next year’s World Cup in South Africa.
Scotland proved themselves too strong for the Dutch from game one. Batting first, Scotland raised a moderate total of 135/6, boosted by Mollie Barbour-Smith’s cameo of 42 from 29 balls at the death. Dutch hopes of a successful chase were quickly dashed when Katherine Fraser and Olivia Bell reduced the Dutch to 0/3 inside two overs. The hosts battled, but only raised 78 all out in reply with Merel Dekeling top scorer with 29. Bell claimed 3/10 from her four overs.
The Dutch fared no better in the second game. Batting first this time, the Lionesses managed to fend of the Scottish bowlers for the full 20 overs. Robin van Oosterom scored 39 as the Dutch set 94/7 in their innings. Needing 95 to secure qualifiaction, Scotland openers Alisa Lister (44) and Darcey Carter (30*) flew out of the blocks. The Wildcats knocked off the total in 8.1 overs, one wicket down.
But it was the third game which demonstrated the sheer dominance of the Scottish side. Batting first, Lister and Carter set about building a huge opening partnership. Both openers raised centuries; Lister made 111 off 58 balls, before Carter brought up 103* off 55 with a six off the last ball of the innings. This took Scotland’s total to an imposing 223/2. With nothing but pride to play for, the Lionesses battled to 100/7 in the 20 overs. Van Oosterom top scored with 43 off 50 balls.
Scotland are the fourth of five associates to secure qualification to the inaugural Women’s U19 World Cup in South Africa in January. USA qualified automatically as the only eligible team in the Americas region. Elsewhere, UAE defeated Thailand, Nepal, Malaysia, Qatar, and Bhutan to secure their place. Indonesia qualified for their first ICC World Cup after a 2-1 win in a best-of-three series against Papua New Guinea. The fifth qualifying team will be the winner of the Africa qualifier, which takes place in Botswana in September.
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