The Netherlands closed in on a place in the global qualifier for the next Women's T20 World Cup after beating Italy today at the VOC ground in Rotterdam.

Italy batted first after winning the toss and crawled to 86-9 from their 20 overs with Emilia Bartram's unbeaten 29 their only score of note. Iris Zwilling was the pick of the Dutch bowlers with 3-14 from her four overs, whilst Caroline de Lange and Silver Siegers picked up two wickets each.

The home side chased down their target with little trouble, winning by seven wickets with 4.5 overs to spare. Robine Rijke was their top scorer with an unbeaten 35.

Handshakes at the end (ICC)

The result means that Netherlands will only fail to qualify should they lose their remaining games - including one against Germany - and Italy win their next two with a huge net run rate swing. The result also ensures that Ireland will play in the global qualifier.