Edwards steps down as Netherlands captain; Bas de Leede takes over

Scott Edwards has stepped down as captain of the Netherlands men's team, bringing an end to a leadership stint that began in June 2022. Fast-bowling allrounder Bas de Leede will take over as captain for the remainder of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 campaign.

Edwards informed his team-mates of his decision after the conclusion of the Utrecht leg of the competition, explaining that he believes he can contribute more to the side by focusing solely on his role as a player.

"I feel like I've got so much more to offer as a player," Edwards said in a video shared by the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB). "Captaining this team has been a massive honour, but this feels like the right time. I love wearing the orange and I'm excited for what lies ahead."

Successful four-year tenure

Edwards took over the captaincy after the opening ODI of England's tour of the Netherlands in 2022, succeeding Pieter Seelaar.

Across his tenure, he captained the Netherlands in 56 ODIs, winning 24 and losing 29. His leadership coincided with some of Dutch cricket's biggest modern achievements, including memorable victories over South Africa and Bangladesh at the 2023 ODI World Cup.

He also led the side in 50 T20 Internationals, guiding the Netherlands to notable wins over Zimbabwe and South Africa during the 2022 T20 World Cup, with the latter result eliminating South Africa from the tournament.

De Leede takes charge

The captaincy now passes to Bas de Leede, one of the Netherlands' premier allrounders and a key figure in their recent success.

Paying tribute to Edwards, de Leede credited the outgoing captain for instilling belief within the squad and helping players maximise their potential.

"You led us into some incredible battles over the years," de Leede said. "You made us believe in ourselves, even when we didn't. The way you communicated your vision and trusted every player helped me believe in my own ability more than I ever had before.

"That selflessness doesn't just help the team succeed; it helps every individual grow. I'm grateful for everything you've done and I'm excited to have you alongside me as a player."

Focus remains on World Cup qualification

The leadership change comes with the Netherlands well placed in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup League 2.

Currently second in the standings behind the United States, the Dutch remain firmly in contention for a place in the Cricket World Cup Qualifier, with the top four teams progressing to the next stage.

Their final League 2 fixtures are scheduled for later this year against Oman and the United Arab Emirates, with de Leede set to begin his captaincy as the Netherlands continue their qualification campaign.

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