Pakistan continued their winning momentum in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with a convincing 32-run victory over the United States in a Group A encounter played in Colombo, securing their second consecutive win of the tournament. The result not only strengthened Pakistan’s position in the group but also served as a measure of redemption after their surprise defeat against the USA in 2024.
The match began with the United States winning the toss and opting to field first, a decision aimed at exploiting early conditions under lights. However, Pakistan’s batting unit responded with composure and intent, posting a competitive total that eventually proved beyond the reach of the American side.
Pakistan Post a Strong Total After Batting First
Batting first, Pakistan scored 190 runs for the loss of nine wickets in their allotted 20 overs. The innings was anchored by opening batter Sahibzada Farhan, who once again demonstrated his growing stature in T20 cricket with a fluent knock of 73 runs. Farhan’s innings combined controlled aggression with smart shot selection, allowing Pakistan to maintain a healthy scoring rate throughout the innings.
The top order laid a solid foundation, while contributions from the middle order ensured Pakistan did not lose momentum despite losing wickets at regular intervals. Although the United States bowlers managed to pick up crucial breakthroughs, Pakistan’s ability to rotate strike and find boundaries in the death overs pushed the total close to the 200-run mark.
Cricket observers noted that the total of 190 reflected a balanced batting performance rather than reliance on a single individual, a positive sign for Pakistan as the tournament progresses.
Revised Line-up Pays Off
For the match against the USA, Pakistan made one change to their playing XI, bringing in Usman Tariq in place of Salman Mirza. The decision proved effective, as the team displayed improved balance and discipline, particularly in the bowling department.
Pakistan’s playing XI for the match included Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Salman Agha, Usman Khan, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Tariq, and Abrar Ahmed. The combination reflected Pakistan’s intent to blend experience with youthful energy in crucial group-stage fixtures.
USA Show Resistance in the Chase
Chasing a target of 191 runs, the United States made a promising start, with their openers putting together a 42-run partnership. The early phase of the chase suggested that the contest might turn competitive, but Pakistan’s bowlers soon tightened the screws to halt the momentum.
Andries Gous was dismissed for 13 runs, triggering a slowdown in the scoring rate. Shortly afterward, Monank Patel returned to the pavilion after scoring just three runs, leaving the USA under pressure. Despite the setbacks, the American middle order attempted to keep the chase alive through determined batting efforts.
Shayan Jahangir played a notable innings of 49 runs, while Shubham Ranjane top-scored for the USA with a well-fought 51. Milind Kumar also contributed with a 29-run knock, but the required run rate continued to climb as Pakistan maintained control through disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.
Pakistan Bowlers Seal the Victory
Pakistan’s bowlers delivered a composed and clinical performance to defend the total. Usman Tariq emerged as the standout bowler, claiming three wickets and breaking key partnerships at crucial moments. Shadab Khan provided vital support with two wickets, using his variations effectively to keep batters guessing.
Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, and Shaheen Shah Afridi chipped in with one wicket each, ensuring that the USA never truly threatened Pakistan’s grip on the match. The American side eventually finished on 158 for eight in their 20 overs, falling short by 32 runs.
The bowling performance was widely praised for its consistency and adaptability, particularly on a surface that offered value for well-directed bowling rather than excessive pace or spin.
Redemption After 2024 Setback
The victory carried added significance for Pakistan, as it marked a successful revenge for their defeat against the USA in 2024. That loss had raised questions about Pakistan’s approach in T20 cricket, making this win an important psychological boost for the team and its supporters.
Fans and analysts alike viewed the performance as a sign of improved focus and tactical clarity, especially in managing pressure situations against lower-ranked but competitive teams.
Momentum Builds Ahead of Key Clash
Pakistan had earlier defeated the Netherlands by three wickets in a thrilling contest, and the win against the USA confirmed their strong start to the tournament. With two victories from two matches, Pakistan now head into their next fixture with growing confidence.
The Green Shirts are set to face arch-rivals India on February 15, a match that is expected to draw massive global attention. With form, momentum, and team balance on their side, Pakistan will look to carry forward their winning rhythm into one of the most anticipated clashes of the tournament.
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