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Ireland defeat the Netherlands by 7 wickets

Ireland are a game away from qualifying for the World Twenty20 after beating the Netherlands by seven wickets in Dubai today.

Watch highlights of Ireland v Netherlands on RTÉ Two from 11.45pm tonight, 23 March, and highlights of Ireland v Namibia on RTÉ Two from 11.35pm on Saturday 24 March.

William Porterfield's side enjoyed their second comfortable win in as many days as they chased down 114 for seven with 20 balls to spare.

Kevin O'Brien was the star of today's success as he claimed two for 17 before completing the chase with an unbeaten 30 from 22 balls.

The Irish will meet Namibia tomorrow with the winner earning the double prize of a place in the final, against Afghanistan, as well as a place at the World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka later this year.

Ireland's bowlers had set up yesterday's 10-wicket win over Canada and after Porterfield again opted to field first, they put their team in charge with some stifling bowling.

Only Alexei Kervezee was able to break the shackles, hitting 56 from 48 balls, with Tom Cooper (28) the other batsman to reach double figures.

Opener Paul Stirling then made sure there were no slip-ups in the chase as he made 33 from 26 balls before O'Brien finished off the job alongside Ed Joyce (25 not out).

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