The Netherlands are preparing for their maiden appearance at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup after securing qualification through strong performances in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier 2025 – 26. Among the standout contributors during that campaign was seamer Isabel van der Woning, who now looks forward to testing herself against top international opposition.
The 24-year-old was her team’s leading wicket-taker in the qualifier, claiming nine wickets in four innings at an economy rate of 4.75, including a four-wicket haul against Thailand. Her performances highlighted her growing importance within the Dutch bowling unit.
Reflecting on the qualifier, van der Woning credited the collective effort of the bowling group, noting how early breakthroughs from her teammates helped her make an impact in the middle and death overs. “I think we performed really well as a team during the fielding innings. The teammates who bowled before me created great pressure, which helped me take wickets. I was very happy with the result we achieved as a team, and it made it even more special to be able to contribute so significantly to that success.”
Growing Confidence and Consistency
As the tournament progressed, van der Woning found greater rhythm with her bowling, improving her consistency in line and length. Her performances reflected that progression, with two wickets in each of the opening matches followed by two Player of the Match efforts — a four-wicket haul against Thailand and a three-wicket spell against Nepal.
“Throughout the tournament, I became more and more comfortable with my bowling, and that was reflected in my results,” she said.
Eyeing English Conditions
With the T20 World Cup set to take place in England, conditions are expected to suit seam bowlers, something van der Woning is eager to explore. She plans to rely on her natural strengths, including pace and movement, while adapting to the conditions.
“I’m really looking forward to the World Cup in England. Excited to see how my bowling will translate in English conditions. At the same time, I’m trying not to overthink it, because I don’t want to put unnecessary pressure on myself as a seamer. I’m not planning to change my approach too much. I’ll focus on bowling the way I normally do and adapting naturally to the conditions.”
Balancing Cricket and Commitments
Off the field, van der Woning continues to balance her cricket career with studies and work commitments, often managing training alongside early-morning sessions and academic responsibilities. She credited the team environment and support staff for helping maintain that balance.
“Trying to train as much as possible in the lead-up to the World Cup. That often means early mornings for gym sessions or training before heading to my internship or work. At the same time, I’m also finishing my studies, which has been accelerated because of the World Cup, so it’s definitely a busy period.”
“Right now, my focus is on preparing as well as I can and giving everything to be ready for the tournament. Fortunately, we have a very strong team environment and great support staff, which makes balancing everything much easier. I’ve been putting a lot of emphasis on my bowling and fielding, and looking at the extra steps I can take to create as much pressure as possible for our opponents during the World Cup.”
Inspired by Shabnim Ismail
Van der Woning also highlighted South Africa’s Shabnim Ismail as a major influence on her bowling, expressing her ambition to reach similar levels of pace.
“One player who really inspires me is Shabnim Ismail. I enjoy watching her bowl and trying to pick up things that I can apply to my own game. If I could one day bowl as fast as she does or even come close to 120km/h, I would be very happy.”
Facing Elite Competition
The Netherlands have been placed in Group A alongside South Africa, Australia, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, presenting a significant challenge for the debutants. Van der Woning views the opportunity to face top teams as a chance to grow and test her skills at the highest level.
“Playing against major cricket nations like India, South Africa, and Australia makes the tournament even more exciting. It’s a huge challenge, but definitely one I’m eager to take on. To compete at that level, you have to push yourself and match the intensity and standard of the opposition.”
“For me, it will be important to bowl smart and make good decisions, and I think it’s also a great opportunity to learn and grow as a player. I’m really looking forward to performing on the big stage and taking on that challenge together with my team,” she concluded.
