Netherlands Cricket Board Invites Indian Net Bowlers for World Cup Preparation

Amsterdam: The Netherlands Cricket Board (KNVB) is inviting Indian cricketers to join their preparatory camp for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 as net bowlers.

The KNVB is looking for one left-arm seamer, one right-arm seamer, a mystery spinner, and a left-arm spinner for the five-day camp in Alur, India, from September 20 to 24.

To qualify, pacers must bowl above 120 kmph (75 mph), and spinners must be able to deliver at a minimum of 80 kmph (50 mph). Aspiring net bowlers are required to submit videos of themselves bowling at least one over, with a clear delivery trajectory visible.

The KNVB will cover the travel, stay, and meals of the selected net bowlers during the camp. Applicants must be above 18 years old and Indian residents.

The KNVB’s move to invite Indian net bowlers is a unique one, but it is understandable given the lack of depth in Dutch domestic cricket. The KNVB does not have the resources to source travelling net bowlers, so this is a way for them to get the best possible preparation for the World Cup.

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has offered to assist the KNVB in finding the best net bowlers. The KSCA has already provided facilities for the Dutch team during their previous camp in Bengaluru, and they are prepared to do so again.

The need for travelling net bowlers is common among all teams participating in the World Cup. The main squad bowlers may not be able to go full throttle at nets during extensive travelling and consecutive matches. Carrying a few quality net bowlers can help maintain practice intensity.