Scotland secured their place in the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 after a commanding 20-run victory over the Netherlands in the final of the Europe Qualifier.
Remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament, the hosts booked their ticket to Zimbabwe and Namibia, where the marquee event will be held in January next year.
Batting first, Scotland posted a competitive 237, with Finlay Jones leading the charge with a fiery 4/41. The Netherlands, despite a promising start at 108/3, faltered under pressure. Off-spinner Manu Saraswat (3/43) tightened the screws, and Ollie Jones dismissed the dangerous Tom De Leede (67), sealing the fate of the Dutch side at 217 all out.
Captain Thomas Knight expressed his elation, calling the win “unbelievable” and praising the team’s growth throughout the qualifiers. Finlay Jones, the architect of the win, described the moment as a dream come true, highlighting the emotional journey to World Cup qualification.
Scotland will now prepare for the global stage, aiming to carry their momentum into the tournament in early 2026.
