By Victoria Hamilton 
The opening day of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Europe Division 1 Qualifier 2025 in Rotterdam saw contrasting matches. Hosts Netherlands Women outclassed Italy Women by 43 runs in the first game, while Ireland Women produced a dominant performance to thrash Germany Women by 10 wickets in the second fixture.
Netherlands Women vs Italy Women – De Leede leads hosts to victory
Result: Netherlands Women won by 43 runs | NED-W 157/7 (20 ov) vs ITA-W 114/8 (20 ov)
After being asked to bat first, the Netherlands Women posted a competitive 157/7 in their 20 overs. Skipper Babette de Leede led from the front with a composed 52 off 42 balls, well supported by Robine Rijke (29 off 18) and *Iris Zwilling (25 off 19)**.
In reply, Italy Women faltered early, losing wickets in clusters. Despite some resistance from Annie Wikman (37 off 29) and Ilenia Sims (19 off 25), they finished on 114/8, falling well short of the target. The Dutch bowlers were clinical, with Iris Zwilling (2/23) and Isabel van der Woning (2/19) making key contributions.
For her match-winning fifty, Babette de Leede was named Player of the Match.
Germany Women vs Ireland Women – Delany inspires crushing Irish win
Result: Ireland Women won by 10 wickets | GER-W 62 (18.2 ov) vs IRE-W 63/0 (7.3 ov)
Ireland Women made a perfect start to their campaign with a ruthless display against Germany Women.
Batting first, Germany Women were bundled out for 62 in 18.2 overs, with only Christina Gough (28 off 39) offering resistance. Ireland captain Laura Delany delivered a sensational spell, claiming 4/9 in 2.2 overs, while Ava Canning (2/10) and Arlene Kelly (1/7) provided solid support.
Chasing 63, Ireland’s openers made light work of the target. Amy Hunter (31 off 23)* and skipper Gaby Lewis (29 off 22)* sealed victory inside 7.3 overs without losing a wicket. Delany’s brilliant spell earned her the Player of the Match award.
The opening day highlighted the contrasting strengths of the teams. Netherlands Women showcased batting depth and steady bowling to overcome Italy, while Ireland Women demonstrated their dominance with both ball and bat to dismantle Germany. With crucial points secured, Netherlands and Ireland have already stamped their authority early in the competition.
Tim Douglas