All international matches in the Netherlands postponed

In a briefing by the Dutch Prime Minister on Tuesday, 21 April, extended measures were announced as part of the fight against the Covid-19 virus in the Netherlands. Unfortunately, these extended measures will have a major impact on the Dutch international summer.

Although some restrictions regarding outdoors sports for children and youth U18 have been eased, the government has banned all events (sports and cultural) until September 1, 2020. This implicates that the T20I against New Zealand, the quadrangular series with Namibia, Oman and the USA, and the ODI’s in the Super League versus Pakistan will be postponed.

Betty Timmer, Chair of KNCB, says: “It is extremely disappointing that we won’t be able to host any international cricket in the Netherlands this summer. However, the health and safety of the players, staff and fans is our main priority, and in that light the ban on events by the Dutch government is understandable. We truly hope that by next season the situation is under control again, so we can host the Super League series against England, Ireland and the West Indies as planned. We would love to welcome back all cricket fans on our grounds in the summer of 2021.”

PCB Chief Executive, Wasim Khan, said: “It is sad that we have to postpone our July tour to the Netherlands, but in the prevailing circumstances, this is absolutely the right thing to do as human lives are far more precious and valuable than a cricket match or an event. Netherlands has been severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and we offer our heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost their lives. Like any other country, the PCB stands firmly with the KNCB and hope they will be able to overcome this crisis. The Pakistan national cricket teams have always enjoyed touring the Netherlands and as soon as things return to normal, the PCB will engage with the KNCB to reschedule the tour so that we can fulfil our obligation.”

The KNCB will stay in close contact with the ICC and the visiting countries to make sure international cricket can return to the Netherlands as soon as it’s safe and possible.

All tickets that have been bought for the matches against New Zealand and Pakistan will be refunded to our fans shortly.