India’s batting brilliance, led by Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, showcased a masterclass as the hosts concluded an undefeated run into the knockouts, delivering a decisive blow to Netherlands with a resounding 160-run victory to end their World Cup campaign.

Shreyas and Rahul, both scoring centuries, orchestrated a magnificent 208-run partnership following an impressive 100-run opening stand between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. This set the stage for India’s commanding total of 410 for 4. Virat Kohli, contributing a half-century, added 71 runs with Shreyas as the Netherlands bowlers found no answer to India’s formidable batting lineup.

The match kicked off dramatically as Gill aggressively charged down the pitch, smashing Aryan Dutt for a six that landed on the roof of the stand past long-on. The dominance continued as Rohit and Gill exploited the Netherlands bowlers, finishing the powerplay on 91 without loss. Although Gill departed after a fiery start, and Rohit fell for 61, Kohli steadied the ship, eventually reaching his half-century off 53 balls.

Shreyas crossed the 200-run mark in the 29th over and celebrated his half-century with finesse. Rahul joined the party, achieving a 40-ball half-century, becoming the fifth batter in India’s top five to reach the milestone. The duo then capitalized on their starts, with Shreyas hitting a disdainful six off Paul van Meekeren, and Rahul bringing up his century with a flick over deep square leg.

The last two overs saw an onslaught, with Shreyas smashing three sixes off Logan van Beek in the 49th over. Rahul’s dismissal on the penultimate ball for 102 did little to diminish the impact, as Shreyas remained unbeaten on 128 from 94 balls, propelling India to a formidable total.

In response, Netherlands showed some resilience, reaching 62 for 1 at the end of the powerplay, thanks to Colin Ackerman’s aggressive approach. However, Kuldeep Yadav’s introduction turned the tide, dismissing Ackermann for 35. Despite moments of resistance, including Max O’Dowd’s fortunate escape, India’s bowlers, including the unexpected sight of Kohli bowling, took control. Siraj removed Edwards, Gill contributed with two wicketless overs, and Bumrah delivered a decisive blow.

Siraj, removing a stubborn Engelbrecht, and Rohit, taking the final wicket, secured India’s victory with a 160-run margin. The hosts concluded their group stage campaign undefeated, leaving a resounding impact on the World Cup.