Australia captain Ricky Ponting was full of praise for Holland after his side cruised to 75-run victory in Potchefstroom on Thursday.
Man of the Match Damien Martyn hit an unbeaten 67 as the defending champions posted 170 for two from their 36-over innings, which was twice interrupted by rain.
The Dutch, chasing 198 for victory under the Duckworth/Lewis method, were then bowled out for 122 from 30.2 overs.
"Full credit to the Dutch boys, they turned up and wanted to play," Ponting said after the match.
We have played some good cricket in this tournament
Australia captain Ricky Ponting
"It was done on a wicket that wasn't 100%, so full credit to them for wanting
to play the game."
Australia had to overcome the elements as well as their opponents to
record their third successive victory in the World Cup.
Persistent rain over the last few days caused the start to be delayed by an hour before two further spells of drizzle cost both sides 16 overs.
"It was important for us to get the points after the sort of weather we had," Ponting added.
"We were aware of the rain rules so we made sure we batted the last six or seven overs without losing a wicket and then we had to make sure we bowled all of our overs.
"We have played some good cricket in this tournament and we want to keep it going in our next match in Bulawayo."
Australia next take on Zimbabwe on Monday 24 February.