T20 World Cup 2024, USA vs Pakistan: Stellar bowling by USA, limit Pakistan to 159 - Cricket Winner

In a thrilling T20 World Cup match held in Texas on Sunday, the USA put up an outstanding bowling performance to restrict Pakistan to 159/7 in 20 overs. Nosthush Kenjige and Saurabh Netravalkar led the charge for the co-hosts, ensuring a challenging yet attainable target.

Match Summary

USA’s bowlers were in fine form as they faced off against Pakistan in a pivotal T20 World Cup match. After winning the toss, USA captain Monank Patel opted to bowl first, a decision that paid off handsomely as his bowlers put Pakistan under pressure right from the start. Despite a valiant effort by Babar Azam and a late surge by Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan could only manage 159/7.

Early Struggles in the Powerplay

Pakistan’s innings got off to a rocky start, with the top order failing to withstand USA’s disciplined bowling. The Pakistani batsmen found it challenging to cope with the movement and seam on offer, leading to early wickets and a slow run rate.

Netravalkar set the tone with a brilliant opening spell, while Steven Taylor’s exceptional catch sent Mohammad Rizwan back to the pavilion. Usman and Fakhar also fell quickly, leaving Pakistan reeling at 26 for 3 in the fifth over.

Babar Azam’s Anchoring Role

Babar Azam, Pakistan’s captain, took on the responsibility of stabilizing the innings. His knock of 44 runs off 43 balls was crucial in anchoring the team, though it came at a relatively slow pace. Babar’s measured approach provided a foundation for the middle order to build upon.

Shadab Khan’s Counterattack

In response to the early setbacks, Shadab Khan adopted a counterattacking strategy. His aggressive knock of 40 runs off 25 balls was instrumental in lifting Pakistan’s run rate. Shadab’s boundary-hitting spree put the pressure back on the USA bowlers.

The 72-run partnership between Shadab and Babar was the highlight of Pakistan’s innings. While Babar held one end steady, Shadab’s fireworks ensured that the scoreboard kept ticking, providing much-needed momentum.

Pakistan’s Middle Order Performance

The middle order saw brief contributions from Usman and Fakhar, but they couldn’t capitalize on their starts. Their quick dismissals added to Pakistan’s woes, making Shadab and Babar’s partnership even more critical.

Despite the middle order’s struggles, the resilience shown by Babar and Shadab prevented a complete collapse. Their efforts were crucial in setting a defendable total on a tricky pitch.

Shaheen Afridi’s Handy Cameo

Shaheen Afridi provided a late flourish with an unbeaten 23, adding valuable runs in the death overs. His aggressive batting in the final overs helped Pakistan reach a competitive total.

Afridi’s cameo was significant in boosting Pakistan’s score, giving their bowlers a fighting chance. His quick runs ensured that Pakistan had some momentum heading into the break.

USA’s Bowling Brilliance

Nosthush Kenjige was the standout bowler for the USA, claiming three crucial wickets for 30 runs. Netravalkar’s disciplined bowling, which yielded two wickets for just 18 runs, set the tone for USA’s defense.

Ali Khan’s performance in the death overs was exemplary. His accurate yorkers and tight lines ensured that Pakistan couldn’t accelerate as much as they would have liked, keeping the run rate in check.