The rivalry between the Netherlands National Cricket Team and the Scotland National Cricket Team is one of the most competitive contests among associate cricket nations. Both teams have consistently battled for dominance in ICC tournaments and qualifiers, producing thrilling matches and showcasing the growth of cricket beyond traditional powerhouses.
Match-by-Match Timeline
Tournament
Date
Venue
Netherlands Score
Scotland Score
Result
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier
8 Jul 2025
The Hague
142/7 (20 ov)
148/9 (20 ov)
Scotland won by 6 runs
Scotland T20I Tri-Series
18 Jun 2025
Scotland
198/7 (20 ov)
181/9 (20 ov)
Netherlands won by 17 runs
Scotland T20I Tri-Series
15 Jun 2025
Scotland
121 (20 ov)
160/8 (20 ov)
Scotland won by 39 runs
ICC Cricket World Cup League Two
12 Jun 2025
Dundee/Forthill
374/6 (49.2 ov)
369/6 (50 ov)
Netherlands won by 4 wickets
ICC Cricket World Cup League Two
6 Jun 2025
Dundee
218 (50 ov)
262/9 (50 ov)
Scotland won by 44 runs
ICC Cricket World Cup League Two
16 May 2025
Utrecht
235 (50 ov)
380/9 (50 ov)
Scotland won by 145 runs
ICC Cricket World Cup League Two
10 May 2025
Amstelveen
282/7 (50 ov)
263/9 (50 ov)
Netherlands won by 19 runs
Netherlands T20I Tri-Series
22 May 2024
The Hague
87 (14.5 ov)
158/7 (20 ov)
Scotland won by 71 runs
Netherlands T20I Tri-Series
18 May 2024
The Hague
167/8 (20 ov)
126 (20 ov)
Netherlands won by 41 runs
Bilateral T20I
27 Oct 2019
Malahide, Dublin
131/6 (20 ov)
130/8 (20 ov)
Netherlands won by 4 wickets
ICC Cricket World Cup League Two
6 Jul 2023
Utrecht
278/6 (50 ov)
277/9 (50 ov)
Netherlands won by 4 wickets
Bilateral ODI
20 May 2021
–
171 (50 ov)
172/4 ( ov)
Scotland won by 6 wickets
Top 5 Standout Individual Performances
Rank
Player
Team
Performance
Match Details
Impact
1
George Munsey
Scotland
191 (150 balls)
12 Jun 2025, ODI League 2
Record Associate nation ODI score (in a losing cause)
2
Max O’Dowd
Netherlands
158* (130 balls)
12 Jun 2025, ODI League 2
Led record chase of 370+
3
Brandon McMullen
Scotland
106
10 May 2025 or similar ODI
Key contribution in big total
4
Paul van Meekeren
Netherlands
19 runs conceded + wickets
10 May 2025, ODI League 2
Player of the Match in tight win
5
Chris Greaves
Scotland
3/26 + crucial batting
8 Jul 2025, T20I Qualifier
Player of the Match in thrilling win
Overall Head-to-Head Summary
Format
Matches Played
Netherlands Won
Scotland Won
Tied
No Result
Highest Score
Lowest Score
ODI
14-16
5-6
8-9
0
1
380 (SCO)
117-235
T20I
15-18
7-8
8-10
0
0
252 (SCO)
87 (NED)
Overall
30+
12-14
16-19
0
1
380
87
Early Encounters and Associate Cricket Growth (1990s–2005)
The rivalry between Netherlands and Scotland began gaining attention in the 1990s during ICC associate tournaments. Both teams were among the strongest non-Test-playing nations, regularly competing in ICC Trophy events and World Cup qualifiers. Matches during this period were closely contested, with neither team establishing complete dominance. Netherlands often relied on disciplined batting, while Scotland focused on balanced team performances. These encounters were crucial for both sides as they aimed to qualify for global tournaments. The competition helped raise the standard of associate cricket and established a rivalry built on determination and ambition.
Year
Event
Winner
Venue
1997
ICC Trophy
Netherlands
Malaysia
2001
ICC Trophy
Scotland
Canada
2005
Qualifier
Netherlands
Ireland
Competitive Balance and Frequent Clashes (2006–2012)
Between 2006 and 2012, the rivalry intensified as both teams met frequently in ICC World Cricket League tournaments and qualifiers. Matches became more structured and competitive, reflecting the improvement in both squads. Netherlands and Scotland often exchanged victories, making their encounters unpredictable. Both teams developed stronger domestic systems, contributing to better performances internationally. This period saw several close matches, with results often decided in the final overs. The rivalry became one of the most anticipated among associate nations, highlighting their consistent progress.
Year
Series/Event
Winner
Highlight
2007
World Cup
Scotland
Key Win
2009
T20 Qualifier
Netherlands
Strong Performance
2012
WCL Match
Scotland
Close Finish
Netherlands’ Strong Phase (2013–2017)
From 2013 to 2017, the Netherlands enjoyed a strong run, often outperforming Scotland in key tournaments. Their batting lineup and disciplined bowling helped them secure important victories. Netherlands’ success in ICC events during this period gave them an edge in the rivalry. Scotland remained competitive but struggled with consistency against their European rivals. Matches were still closely contested, but Netherlands managed to dominate crucial moments. This era highlighted their growth as a leading associate nation.
Year
Event
Winner
Highlight
2014
T20 World Cup
Netherlands
Upset Victory
2015
WCL Championship
Netherlands
Dominant Run
2017
Qualifier Match
Netherlands
Strong Finish
Scotland’s Comeback and Competitive Edge (2018–2020)
Between 2018 and 2020, Scotland regained momentum and delivered strong performances against the Netherlands. They improved their consistency and produced several match-winning performances. Matches during this period were highly competitive, with both teams showcasing quality cricket. Scotland managed to secure key victories, balancing the rivalry once again. This phase demonstrated the resilience of the Scottish team and their ability to challenge top associate nations.
Year
Event
Winner
Highlight
2018
ODI Series
Scotland
Strong Win
2019
T20 Match
Scotland
Close Contest
2020
ICC Event
Scotland
Consistency
Modern Era and ICC League Competitions (2021–2023)
In recent years, the rivalry has been shaped by ICC Cricket World Cup League competitions. Both teams have competed regularly, maintaining a high level of competitiveness. Matches have been closely fought, with each team showcasing strengths in different areas. Netherlands’ structured gameplay contrasts with Scotland’s aggressive approach. This period reflects the evolving nature of associate cricket, with both teams striving for qualification to major ICC events.
Year
Series/Event
Winner
Highlight
2021
League Match
Netherlands
Tactical Win
2022
ODI Clash
Scotland
Strong Response
2023
Qualifier
Netherlands
Key Victory
Recent Years and Emerging Talent (2024–Present)
The rivalry continues to grow with the emergence of new players in both squads. Netherlands and Scotland are investing in young talent, making matches more dynamic and competitive. Recent encounters have been unpredictable, with both teams capable of winning under pressure. This era highlights the future of associate cricket, where teams are becoming increasingly competitive and professional. The rivalry remains exciting and continues to attract global attention.
Year
Series/Event
Winner
Highlight
2024
ICC League
Scotland
Competitive Match
2025
Bilateral Series
Netherlands
Strong Performance
2026
Upcoming Matches
—
Anticipated Clash
Key Players and Match-Winning Performances
The Netherlands vs Scotland rivalry has been shaped by several key players who delivered standout performances. Netherlands stars like Ryan ten Doeschate and Bas de Leede have been instrumental, while Scotland has relied on players like Kyle Coetzer and Richie Berrington. These players have consistently performed under pressure, influencing match outcomes. Their contributions have added excitement and depth to the rivalry, ensuring memorable encounters.
Player
Team
Era
Contribution
Ryan ten Doeschate
Netherlands
2000s–2010s
All-round Excellence
Bas de Leede
Netherlands
Modern Era
Match Winner
Kyle Coetzer
Scotland
2010s
Leadership
Richie Berrington
Scotland
Modern Era
Consistency
Rivalry Significance and Global Impact
The Netherlands vs Scotland rivalry plays a vital role in the development of associate cricket. It showcases the competitive spirit and progress of teams outside the traditional cricketing powers. Their matches contribute to the growth of the sport globally and inspire emerging players. The rivalry reflects the increasing professionalism and quality of associate cricket, ensuring its continued relevance in the international arena.
Aspect
Netherlands
Scotland
Impact
Strength
Structured Play
Aggressive Approach
Balanced Rivalry
Challenge
Consistency
Depth
Growth
Future
Rising Talent
Strong Core
Exciting Matches
Conclusion
The timeline of the Netherlands National Cricket Team vs Scotland National Cricket Team rivalry reflects the evolution of associate cricket into a highly competitive domain. Both teams have shared periods of dominance, producing thrilling matches and memorable performances. From early ICC Trophy clashes to modern league competitions, their rivalry has grown stronger with each encounter. As both nations continue to develop talent and improve consistency, future matches promise even greater excitement. This rivalry stands as a symbol of cricket’s global expansion, highlighting how emerging teams can compete at high levels and contribute significantly to the sport’s growth worldwide.
