Cricket, a sport often associated with countries like India, England, and Australia, might seem unfamiliar to many Americans, much like driving on the opposite side of the road. However, the recent performance of Monank Patel's team in the T20 World Cup 2024 has brought attention to cricket in the United States of America (USA). After a surprising victory against Pakistan, hopes were high for the USA to perform well against Rohit Sharma's Team India in what was billed as an India versus 'Mini India' clash. The match took place at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium and marked the end of the USA's unbeaten streak in T20I cricket.
#Crickit | #India beat #USA by 7 wickets to become the third team after South Africa and Australia to book a spot in the Super 8 of the #T20WorldCup
— Hindustan Times (@htTweets) June 12, 2024
Highlights here 🔗 https://t.co/ZcEXtRMh8p pic.twitter.com/0euCuZkyyk
The spotlight during the match was on pace bowler Arshdeep Singh, who made headlines with his performance in the powerplay against the USA. Arshdeep scripted history by becoming the first Indian bowler to take a wicket on the first ball of an ICC World T20.
His double strike, dismissing both Shayan Jahangir and Andries Gous, set the tone for India's dominance in the game. Despite missing their captain Monank Patel, the USA struggled to score against India, recording their lowest powerplay score.
Arshdeep's exceptional bowling, combined with support from the experienced Jasprit Bumrah, played a significant role in restricting the USA to a modest total of 110-8 in their allotted 20 overs. However, Mumbai-born pacer Saurabh Netravalkar provided a shine of hope for the USA by claiming the prized wickets of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli early on in the match. Netravalkar's early breakthroughs brought excitement into the low-scoring encounter and raised hopes of a competitive match.
Arshdeep Singh shines with the ball but not a terrible effort from USA considering it's New York
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) June 12, 2024
LIVE: https://t.co/hHYLQqAZKn | #INDvUSA | #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/Fja6KNpXZ9
In response to the USA's total, India's batting innings saw a remarkable comeback led by Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant. Yadav, known for his aggressive batting style, played a crucial innings, scoring a half-century that proved instrumental in India's successful run chase. Pant, too, showcased his talent with the bat, providing strong support to Yadav. Their partnership propelled India to victory in what was a historic moment, as India completed the highest successful run chase ever witnessed in New York.
IND vs USA Live: टीम इंडिया ने अमेरिका को 7 विकेट से हराया, सूर्यकुमार यादव ने खेली मैच विनिंग पारी#T20WorldCup #INDvsUSA #Cricket #RohitSharma #SuryaKumarYadav #TeamIndiahttps://t.co/cePkEcwsW8 pic.twitter.com/6x48rPHsIA
— India TV (@indiatvnews) June 12, 2024
With contributions from Shivam Dube as well, India sealed the win with seven wickets in hand and 10 balls to spare, securing their spot in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup. The match highlighted the ability and skill of both teams, with India eventually winning. It was a proud moment for Indian cricket fans and a belief in the growing popularity and competitiveness of cricket in non-traditional cricketing nations like the USA.
As the T20 World Cup progresses, cricket fans eagerly expect thrilling encounters and unexpected outcomes on the global stage. The match between India and the USA served as a reminder of the unpredictability of cricket and the potential for underdog teams to make their mark on the international stage.