January 8, 2026: The Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB) is entering 2026 on a high, following a remarkable 2025 for both its men’s and women’s national teams, increased participation across the country, and new plans to further develop the domestic game.
Men’s and women’s teams set for global stages
Last year, the Dutch men’s national team qualified for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup during an impressive home qualifying campaign at Voorburg Cricket Club (VCC). The team will be in action at the tournament starting this February.
Later in 2026, the Netherlands will also host several ICC Cricket World Cup 2027 qualifying matches as the team begins its journey toward the 50-over global event.
On the women’s side, the Dutch women’s team successfully qualified for the Global Qualifier after a strong showing at VOC Rotterdam. That event will be held this month in Nepal, where they will compete for one of four spots at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England this summer.
Growing the game: participation and new competition format
Cricket continues to grow in the Netherlands, with a rise in the number of active players in 2025. In 2026, the KNCB will introduce a new domestic competition format aimed at making cricket more competitive and development-driven at club level.
Following a request from the KNCB General Meeting, a new points-based system will be implemented to limit the number of overseas players clubs can field. The goal is to provide more playing opportunities for homegrown Dutch talent.
Leadership changes and structural focus for 2026
As of March 1, 2026, Huib van Walsem will succeed Lucas Hendrikse as part of a new KNCB organizational structure focused on:
- Financial stability
- Sponsorship acquisition
- Strategic growth in performance and development
These structural priorities aim to support both high-performance programs (national teams, youth squads, elite competition) and grassroots development to ensure long-term growth and stability in Dutch cricket.
Sponsorship outlook and message from the KNCB
The KNCB is actively engaging with potential sponsors and hopes to announce new partnerships in the coming months, supporting its strategic goals across domestic and international cricket.
Guido Landheer, Chairman of the KNCB, shared his thoughts heading into the new year:
“We’ve started 2026 full of renewed energy and we assume this also applies to all KNCB affiliated clubs. We would like to wish all cricketers and cricket fans a sporty, successful and above all healthy 2026.”
With growing international ambitions, a developing domestic structure, and rising participation numbers, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Dutch cricket.
