The T20 World Cup match between the Netherlands and Sri Lanka on March 24, 2014, at Chittagong stands out in cricket history owing to its record-breaking low scores. This match not only saw the Netherlands bowl out for the lowest score ever in a T20 World Cup competition, but it also showed the significant performance disparity between Associate Nations and established cricketing powerhouses.
Sri Lanka’s bowling squad performed brilliantly in T20 cricket, smashing the Netherlands’ batting lineup with brutal effectiveness. After winning the toss and deciding to bat, the Dutch side was met with an onslaught from Sri Lankan bowlers right away. The Netherlands were bowled out for 39 runs in 10.3 overs, creating an unfortunate record for the lowest T20 international total at the time. This dismal total reflected Sri Lanka’s disciplined and aggressive bowling.
Ajantha Mendis led the bowling attack, taking three wickets for 12 runs in his three overs. His effort was supported by Angelo Mathews, who took three wickets for 16 runs, and Lasith Malinga, who took two wickets for 5 runs. The Dutch batters were comprehensively trounced, with only Tom Cooper managing to reach double digits (16 runs). The rest of the team buckled under the duress, unable to match Sri Lanka’s precision and varied bowling attack.
In response, Sri Lanka easily knocked down the modest target of 40 runs, finishing in just 5 overs and losing only one wicket. Kusal Perera led the charge with 33 runs off 24 balls, securing Sri Lanka’s 9-wicket triumph with an incredible 90 balls to spare.
This match remains the lowest combined score in T20 World Cup history, highlighting the Netherlands’ batting collapse and Sri Lanka’s overwhelming performance. The match emphasized the problems that Associate Nations confront while playing at the highest level and served as a stark reminder of the unpredictability and excitement that T20 cricket can provide. Sri Lanka’s stunning victory was a stepping stone on their path to winning the ICC World Twenty20 2014, where they defeated India in the final.
