Scott Edwards has stepped down as captain of the Netherlands. The Royal Dutch Cricket Association confirmed the decision through a video shared on social media.
All rounder Bas de Leede will lead the team for the remaining matches in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2.
“Apologies for sort of springing this one on you guys. I’m actually stepping down from the captaincy from here,” Edwards told his teammates.
“I think it’s sort of something Cookie (Ryan Cook) 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, I think.”
“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. And yeah, I think the world’s our oyster and I’m really looking forward to what’s to come.”
Edwards became Netherlands captain in June 2022. He led the side in 56 One Day Internationals and 50 Twenty20 Internationals.
During his time as captain, the Netherlands recorded famous World Cup wins over South Africa and Bangladesh in 2023. The team also beat Zimbabwe and South Africa at the 2022 T20 World Cup. Those results knocked South Africa out of the tournament.
De Leede paid tribute to Edwards after being named captain.
“I think if I can speak on behalf of the players, you’ve led us into some really cool battles over the years. And 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 Netherlands are currently second in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 standings. The team will face Oman and the United Arab Emirates in the final round of matches. The top four teams will qualify for the 2027 World Cup Qualifier.
