Rotterdam Dockers opened the European T20 Premier League with a five-wicket win over Amsterdam Flames in the first Dutch derby. Chasing 158, Faf du Plessis smashed 83 off 55 balls, while David Wiese hit an unbeaten 27 to seal victory with 11 balls to spare.

The European T20 Premier League could hardly have asked for a more compelling opening chapter. In a contest that carried the weight of a new competition and the intensity of a Dutch derby, Rotterdam Dockers produced a composed chase at Sportpark Westvliet to defeat Amsterdam Flames by five wickets and begin their ETPL campaign with a statement victory.

Chasing 158, the Dockers reached 158 for five in 18.1 overs, with captain Faf du Plessis anchoring the pursuit with a superb 83 from 55 balls. David Wiese then provided the finishing thrust, remaining unbeaten on 27 from 17 deliveries as Rotterdam crossed the line with 11 balls to spare.

Earlier, Amsterdam had posted 157 for eight after Rotterdam won the toss and elected to field. The decision immediately placed responsibility on the Flames to establish a competitive total, while Rotterdam backed their bowling attack to exploit the early conditions and then chase with a target in sight. The choice ultimately proved justified.

Amsterdam's innings began positively through Max O'Dowd, who struck 25 from just 15 balls, including four boundaries. But Rotterdam made early inroads, removing Michael Levitt's opening partner Yuvraj Samra for five before dismissing O'Dowd at the end of the fourth over.