The Netherlands World Cup Qualification hopes have been dealt a severe blow with the news that opener Stephan Myburgh has been ruled out of the tournament.

Myburgh, who turns 34 next week, sustained the injury during training four weeks ago but still hoped to feature in the opening game against the Irish in Zimbabwe on March 4.

However Dutch physio Evan Speechly sent him for a scan as he wasn't happy with his recuperation and their worst fears was realised as the scan showed surgery would be required with up to a two-month lay-off, forcing his withdrawal from the competition.

Myburgh's absence will certainly boost the Irish and Andy McBrine in particular. It was Myburgh who launched a brutal assault on the Irish spinner en route to a Man of the Match display when the Dutch stunned Ireland by chasing 190 in just 13.5 overs to qualify for the latter stages of the 2014 T20 World Cup.

He will be replaced in the squad by 18 year-old Bas de Leede, who has spent the last two months at the Gary Kirsten Cricket Academy in Cape Town.

Head Coach Ryan Campbell told the KNCB website: “It’s not ideal that’s for sure, losing someone of Stef’s talent and experience is never great and I’m sure we will miss him.

"In saying that, we keep saying that the depth of our squad has improved and this will provide not only Bas a great opportunity, but also the likes of Max O’Dowd the chance to step up and grab their chance at the top of the order”.

The Netherlands are currently in action in South Africa, playing Hong Kong, before taking on Scotland later in the week.