Not India! Ryan ten Doeschate supporting Netherlands? Coach breaks silence before T20 WC clash

India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate shared his emotions about facing the Netherlands in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 match. Ten Doeschate called it a special moment because of his past connection with the Dutch cricket team and the memories tied to 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 prepare India against the team he once represented as a player. He became India’s assistant coach in July 2024.

My Heart, Conscience, and Loyalty Lie with India - Ryan ten Doeschate

In a video shared by the BCCI on their website, Ryan ten Doeschate said that he remains proud of the Netherlands. However, he stated that his focus and loyalty lie with India.

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“Orange gave me the platform to enjoy every other colour 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 being known for that colour," ten Doeschate said.

"It nicely sums up how I’ve represented two colours that mean something to two different countries and people. I’m immensely proud of how the Dutch team has progressed since my time there, but now my heart, conscience, and loyalty lie with the Indian team.”

It’s Great to Work with Such a Highly Skilled Group - Ryan ten Doeschate

Ryan ten Doeschate also praised the Indian team’s courage and skill, adding that he is fortunate to be part of the setup. He stated that competing at the highest level demands courage and pride.

“I don’t think you can play sport at this level without those qualities. You need courage and pride. With the Indian players, courage is something I almost take for granted because performing at this level, in this environment, takes a lot of it. It’s great to work with such a highly skilled group of players,” the assistant coach stated.

It’s Been an Unexpected but Incredibly Enjoyable Journey - Ryan ten Doeschate

The assistant coach said that building personal connections within the team is important to him. He stated that spending time with players helps create trust and a support system away from home. Ten Doeschate described his journey with the team as unexpected but deeply enjoyable.

“I like to spend time with everyone and find ways to connect with different people. Over time, they become your home and your support system — the ones 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 one I’m very grateful for.”

India have sealed qualification for the Super 8 stage after winning all three of their group matches. The Men in Blue will look to stay unbeaten before the Super 8 stage. They secured a 61-run victory over Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo in their last match.

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