India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate shared his feelings about facing the Netherlands in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 match. Ten Doeschate described it as a special moment because of his past association with the Dutch cricket team and the memories he has of representing them during his playing career.
Defending champions India will take on the Netherlands in their final group-stage match at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Wednesday. For the first time in his coaching career, Ten Doeschate will line up India against the team he once represented as a player. He became the assistant coach of India in July 2024.
My heart, conscience and loyalty are with India – Ryan Ten Doeschate
In a video shared by BCCI on its website, Ryan ten Doeschate said that he is proud of the Netherlands. However, he said that his focus and allegiance is to India.
“Orange gave me the platform to enjoy every other color in the palette. When I think of orange, I first think of the Netherlands and my time playing for them, as well as the cricket team that color is known for,” said Ten Doeschate.
“It speaks well of how I have represented two colors that mean something to two different countries and people. I am extremely proud of how the Dutch team has progressed since my time there, but now my heart, conscience and loyalty are with the Indian team.”
It’s great to work with such a highly skilled group – Ryan Ten Doeschate
Ryan ten Doeschate also praised the courage and skill of the Indian team and said that he is fortunate to be a part of this setup. He said that competing at the highest level requires courage and pride.
The assistant coach said, “I don’t think you can play the game at this level without those qualities. You need courage and pride. With Indian players, courage is something I almost take for granted because it takes a lot to perform at this level, in this environment. It’s great to work with such a highly skilled group of players.”
It’s been an unexpected but incredibly enjoyable journey – Ryan Ten Doeschate
The assistant coach said it is important for him to build personal relationships within the team. He said spending time with players away from home helps build trust and a support system. Ten Doeschate described his journey with the team as unexpected but extremely enjoyable.
“I love spending time with everyone and finding ways to connect with different people. Over time, they become your home and your support system – people you talk to about your ambitions and problems when you’re away.”
“That connection is very important to me. It helps me deal with the pressure of cricket. It’s been an unexpected but incredibly enjoyable journey, and I’m very grateful for it.”
India has secured qualification for the Super 8 stage by winning all three of its group matches. The Men in Blue will look to remain unbeaten ahead of the Super 8 stage. They won by 61 runs over Pakistan at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo in their last match.
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