In a thrilling World Cup encounter, the Netherlands cricket team displayed exceptional skills and determination to secure a resounding 87-run triumph over Bangladesh at Kolkata's iconic Eden Gardens. Skipper Scott Edwards led the way with a gritty half-century, while Paul van Meekeren delivered a dream spell to guide the Dutch to their second victory in the tournament.

Batting first after winning the toss on a fresh Eden wicket, the Netherlands faced a challenging task against a strong Bangladesh bowling attack. However, Edwards overcame a nervy start to notch up his second World Cup fifty, leading his team to a modest total of 229 all out.

Undeterred by the target, Bangladesh began their chase with hope in their hearts, spurred on by the fervent support of the 15,000-odd crowd. But the Netherlands' bowlers had different plans, as they executed their strategies with clinical precision.

Paul van Meekeren emerged as the hero for the Dutch, wreaking havoc in the Bangladeshi middle order with figures of 4 for 23. His spell left Bangladesh reeling at 70 for 6 in just 18 overs. Bas de Leede also played a crucial role, claiming 2 for 25, while Aryan Dutt, Logan van Beek, and Colin Ackermann chipped in with one wicket each.

Bangladesh's efforts to stage a recovery faltered as their top six batsmen managed only single-digit scores. The Dutch bowlers exploited the extra bounce on offer, exposing the vulnerabilities of their opponents' batting lineup.

Ultimately, Bangladesh were bundled out for a mere 142 runs in 42.2 overs, handing the Netherlands an emphatic victory. This defeat marked the fifth in six matches for Bangladesh, placing their World Cup campaign on the brink of elimination.

With this win, the Netherlands not only climbed off the bottom of the World Cup table but also pushed defending champions England to the bottom. It was a remarkable feat for the Associate Nation, showcasing their superiority over Test-playing nations.

The victory was built on a solid foundation laid by Edwards, who played a crucial knock amidst several missed chances. He received support from Sybrand Engelbrecht, with whom he forged a vital 78-run partnership for the sixth wicket.

Despite Bangladesh's best efforts with the ball, Mustafizur Rahman standing out with figures of 2/36, the Netherlands managed to reach a respectable total. Logan van Beek's late cameo of 23 from 16 balls propelled the Dutch to a challenging score.

The Netherlands' clinical display with both bat and ball left Bangladesh with a mountain to climb, leading to their eventual collapse in the run chase.

With this stunning upset, the Netherlands have reinvigorated their campaign in the World Cup, while Bangladesh's hopes of progressing further in the tournament hang by a thread. The Dutch will look to carry forward this momentum as they prepare for their upcoming clashes, while Bangladesh face a daunting task of regaining their lost form.

The match at the Eden Gardens will be remembered for the Netherlands' remarkable victory, which has added another thrilling chapter to the rich history of the Cricket World Cup.