• Source:JND

Scott Edwards has stepped down as Netherlands captain after the conclusion of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 tri-series featuring Namibia and Nepal. The Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB) has named Bas de Leede as the team’s new captain with immediate effect.

“Apologies for sort of springing this one on you guys. I’m actually stepping down from the captaincy from here,” Edwards told his teammates in a video released by KNCB (the Royal Dutch Cricket Association).

“I think it’s sort of something Cookie (Ryan Cook, the head coach) and I have been speaking about and I’ve sort of been speaking to a few different people about it, and this is sort of the time that feels right for me.”

The 29-year-old led the Netherlands in 56 One-Day Internationals during his four-year stint as captain, which began in June 2022. Under his leadership, the Dutch side won 24 ODIs. He also captained the team in 50 T20 Internationals.

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Edwards guided the Netherlands to three successive T20 World Cups in 2022, 2024 and 2026. He also led the team at the 2023 ODI World Cup, helping establish the Dutch as one of the strongest associate nations in world cricket.

“I feel like I’ve got so much more to offer as a player and obviously that’s my goal sort of going forward with all you boys. I think this is such a special group; the world’s our oyster and I’m really looking forward to what’s to come.

“I didn’t want to get that in the way of the series, but that’s it from me and I can’t thank you guys enough for the efforts you’ve put in for me and for this team over the last four years. It’s been a massive honour for me and I love wearing the orange and can’t wait for many more years to come.”

Even after the captaincy change, the Netherlands remain in a strong position in the World Cup League 2 standings. The team is currently second and is on course to qualify directly for next year’s ODI World Cup Qualifiers.

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New captain Bas de Leede thanked Edwards for everything he has done for the team and praised the impact he had on the players.

“I think if I can speak on behalf of the players, you’ve let us into some really cool battles over the years. I just want to thank you, for believing in us,” de Leede said.

“Even if some of us didn’t believe in ourselves or in the team, the way you were able to communicate to us what the plan was and how it was going to be acquired every single game, day in, day out, was special and made me as a player believe in my own ability more than I ever did before,” the fast-bowling all-rounder added.

“It doesn’t set just the team up for success, but it sets individuals up for success. And I think we should all be very thankful for that, for a guy to be that selfless to put others into the best space to perform. It’s pretty special. I’m so excited to see what’s more to come for you as a player. I think you’re a very special player and I can’t wait to lead you on the field,” the 26-year-old concluded.


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