6 September 2026
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NEWS
Bas de Leede key for Amsterdam Flames in victory over Rotterdam Dockers
The ETPL had a fine finale on Dutch soil on Sunday before the whole circus moves to Malahide, Ireland. For the second time in two weeks, the Amsterdam Flames faced Rotterdam Dockers. Rotterdam won the first encounter, but Amsterdam made a strong comeback this time: a win by eight wickets thanks to key contribution from Voorburg's Bas de Leede, who was named Player of the Match on his home ground with 69 not out.
The Flames opted to field after winning the toss. 42/2 was not a dream start – with Dutch bowler Aryan Dutt getting his Orange teammate Vikram Singh LBW – but the 42-year-old South African superstar Faf du Plessis showed that he can still hold his own at this level and scored 60 runs. Heinrich Klaasen contributed 29 runs and the 41-year-old Namibian David Wiese provided a fine finale with 43 not out from just sixteen balls. 1-23 and 1-31 were the impressive figures for Dutch spinners Dutt and Pringle.
Steve Smith was unable to make an impact for Amsterdam Flames, but Tim David (68 not out off 35 balls) and Voorburg 'local' Bas de Leede (69 not out) brought the 1,500-strong crowd to their feet with an unbeaten partnership of 113 runs for the third wicket. The Amsterdam victory secured them third place in the standings for the time being, ahead of the Rotterdam Dockers, who, although they have the same number of points, have a lower net run rate.
The tournament will resume on September 9 in Malahide, Ireland, near Dublin. There, thirteen pool matches will determine who reaches the Qualifier and the Final. The winner of the final will be able to call themselves the first ETPL tournament winner.
Voorburg CC, the ETPL organisation, and the KNCB can look back on a very successful event that attracted an ever-increasing number of spectators and showcased cricket of an unprecedentedly high standard.