The Dutch squad's preparations for the crucial Intercontinental Cup match against Ireland, beginning in Rotterdam on Wednesday, were further disrupted at the weekend with news that Alexei Kervezee has had to pull out because of a hamstring injury.

With Ryan ten Doeschate and Bas Zuiderent already unavailable, Kervezee's batting was likely to be a key factor for the home side, and his injury is even more damaging since he will also miss the European Championships in Dublin later this month.

It is hoped that he may be fit in time for the World Twenty20 qualifier in Belfast the following weekend.

Excelsior '20's left-handed opener Rifaiz Bakas and promising young Quick Haag batsman Lesley Stokkers have been brought into the squad for Rotterdam, while Stokkers' clubmate, allrounder Henk-Jan Mol will join the party for Dublin.