In a display of sheer dominance, Australia delivered the most brutal of one-twos against the Netherlands, leaving their opponents floored and reeling. David Warner initiated the assault with a formidable 104, but it was Glenn Maxwell’s astonishing 106 off just 44 deliveries that proved to be the knockout blow. Australia set an imposing total of 399 for 8, standing triumphantly at the halfway mark over a Netherlands side that eventually succumbed to a staggering 309-run defeat – the largest margin in men’s ODI World Cup history.
Maxwell’s ferocious innings not only dismantled records but also reshaped the narrative of the match against a valiant Netherlands outfit. Despite the Netherlands’ efforts to keep Australia in check, Warner’s strong partnerships with Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne laid the foundation. However, Max O’Dowd’s missed chance and Roelof van der Merwe’s challenging catches kept the Netherlands in the game.
The turning point came with Maxwell’s arrival at the crease in the 39th over. Despite a run-out and a missed chance, Maxwell unleashed havoc, smashing boundaries and sixes at will. His breathtaking century off 40 balls, ultimately wresting the record for the fastest century in ODI World Cups, left the Netherlands bowlers in disarray.
As Maxwell celebrated his century with a nod to his newborn child, Logan, Netherlands faced a daunting target of 400. Vikramjit’s aggressive start was curtailed by Warner’s brilliant catch, setting the tone for the Netherlands’ challenging chase. Colin Ackermann, Bas de Leede, and Sybrand Engelbrecht fell in quick succession, with Zampa securing two wickets in two deliveries.
The Netherlands’ hopes further crumbled as Mitchell Marsh, Starc, and Cummins joined the wicket-taking spree. Netherlands found themselves at 90 all out, with their last five wickets falling for just six runs. Captain Scott Edwards, a lone figure at the crease, witnessed a historic defeat for his team, now etched on the wrong side of history. Australia’s ruthless display not only secured a commanding victory but also reaffirmed their status as a formidable force in the tournament.
