In a historic first encounter between the USA and Pakistan in international cricket, the USA clinched a dramatic victory in the Super Over of a Group A clash at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas. The match, filled with thrilling moments and high pressure, showcased the rising standards of American cricket.
After winning the toss, the USA elected to bowl first, managing to restrict Pakistan to 159/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Pakistan’s innings started poorly, losing Mohammad Rizwan, Usman Khan, and Fakhar Zaman within the powerplay, leaving them reeling at 26/3. Despite a solid recovery attempt by Shadab Khan (40 off 25) and captain Babar Azam (44 off 43), the USA bowlers struck back to keep the scoring in check. Shaheen Shah Afridi’s late cameo of 25 runs helped push Pakistan’s total past 150.
The USA’s chase was led by India-born Monank Patel, who scored his maiden T20I half-century, and Andries Gous, who added a valuable 35. The game saw a nail-biting finish with Nitish Kumar hitting a crucial boundary off the last ball to tie the scores.
In the Super Over, Pakistan’s Mohammad Amir struggled with his line and length, conceding 19 runs, including seven wides. USA’s Saurabh Netravalkar held his nerve, taking the vital wicket of Iftikhar Ahmed and restricting Pakistan to 14 runs, ensuring a five-run victory for the USA.
Netravalkar’s composure under pressure was pivotal in the USA’s win, earning praise for his skillful bowling in the tense final moments. Noshtush Kenjige was the standout bowler in the regular innings, taking three wickets. Netravalkar, along with Pakistan-origin bowler Ali Khan and Jasdeep Singh, chipped in with crucial wickets to dismantle the Pakistani batting lineup.
This victory marks a significant milestone for USA cricket, highlighting their potential on the international stage and setting the tone for future encounters.