Hong Kong, Netherlands qualify for World Twenty20 finals
Dubai (AFP) - Hong Kong and the Netherlands secured the last two qualifying spots for next year's ICC World Twenty20 finals in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.
With a 29 run defeat of Papua New Guinea, Hong Hong secured their first ever appearance on the global stage, while the Dutch, who beat Scotland, make their return after missing out on the last two tournaments.
Hong Kong, with captain Jamie Atkinson a frustrated spectator nursing a broken thumb, did it the hard way, overcoming a disastrous start.
Recovering from 19 for four inside four overs they went on to post 137 for nine, bowling out Papua New Guinea for 108 with five balls remaining.
A delighted Hong Kong vice-captain Waqas Barqat said: "I have no words. It will be the first time Hong Kong will play in the ICC World Twenty20 tournament.
"I think the whole team was really keen to qualify and go to Bangladesh.
"Even after losing four wickets early on, the guys had self-belief and we did it," he said.
Later at the Zayed Cricket Stadium the Netherlands defeated Scotland by eight wickets with 13 balls to spare.
Hong Kong and the Dutch join already qualified Ireland, Afghanistan, Nepal and the United Arab Emirates at the March 16-April 6 finals in Bangladesh.
