Summary New Zealand beat the Netherlands by six wickets in their World Twenty20 match on Saturday.
CHITTAGONG (Agencies) - New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum smashed 65 to guide his side to a vital six-wicket win over Netherlands in the World Twenty20 on Saturday.
Riding on McCullum s attacking knock, the Black Caps had an over to spare, scoring 152-4 in response to Netherlands 151-4.
It was a victory New Zealand required to remain alive in the competition. They will now face off with Sri Lanka for a spot in the semifinals, knowing they can turn to their captain if they need another good knock.
McCullum, who hit four fours and three sixes off 45 balls, became the first cricketer to score 2000 runs in Twenty20 internationals when he was on 21. He intended a reverse scoop but Logan Van Beek s ball swung to force McCullum to nudge into cover for a single.
"It s pretty well known across the world what kind of player Brendon is, New Zealand bowler Trent Boult said. "For him to tick up that milestone is pretty satisfying personally and something the team love to see.
McCullum settled New Zealand s innings after Timm Van der Gugten had taken Martin Guptill cheaply. Kane Williamson chipped in with 29 while Corey Anderson was 20 not out. Ross Taylor made 18.
For Netherlands, Van der Gugten claimed 3-30 while Van Beek had 1-14.
Earlier Netherlands captain Peter Borren struck 49 to lead his side from the front. Tom Cooper was not out 40 while Michael Swart made 26. Cooper and Borren added 60 to give their bowlers a chance for an upset victory.
Boult, Kyle Mills, Nathan McCullum and Mitchell McClenaghan claimed one wicket apiece after McCullum won the toss and decided to bowl first.
