2009 T20 World Cup champions Pakistan faced a shocking reality check as they succumbed to an inexperienced USA team on Thursday, June 6, in Dallas. The hosts showcased an all-round brilliance to win an epic Super-Over thriller, marking their second consecutive win in the T20 World Cup 2024.
The USA entered the tournament with impressive T20I series victories against Canada (4-0) and Bangladesh (2-1), raising expectations for their performance in the World Cup. They began their campaign with a resounding seven-wicket victory over Canada on June 1. However, few anticipated the USA team would bring the heat against a well-established side like Pakistan, the runners-up in the last edition of the T20 World Cup.
Yet, the USA team never seemed fazed during the chase, thanks to their experience in handling tough situations in international games and appearances in Major League Cricket (MLC). Let’s explore how this game ranks among the finest T20 World Cup upsets.
USA’s Stunning Victory Against Pakistan: The Biggest Upset in T20 World Cup History
Certainly, T20 World Cup history is rich with instances where underdogs have triumphed over favorites.
In the 2009 edition, the Netherlands chased down a target of 163 against England. The 2016 edition saw Afghanistan sealing a six-run victory over West Indies, a team that eventually lifted the trophy that year.
The T20 World Cup 2022 witnessed three significant upsets: Namibia’s 55-run victory against Sri Lanka, Ireland’s five-run win over England (D/L method), and Zimbabwe’s one-run thriller against Pakistan.
However, the USA’s triumph over Pakistan stands out due to the significance and implications of this result. Earning an automatic entry as co-hosts, the USA rose to the occasion in their debut World Cup appearance, showcasing their depth and resilience.
The USA’s bowling unit was sensational, reducing Pakistan to 40/3 after eight overs. Notably, Mohammad Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman struggled to make substantial contributions. Although Shadab Khan provided some impetus with a 40 off 25 balls, the slow-paced knock of captain Babar Azam (44 off 43) hindered Pakistan’s momentum. Ultimately, Pakistan posted 159, a total that appeared insufficient against a determined USA side.
USA skipper Monank Patel emphasized their strategic approach during the toss, aiming to restrict Pakistan to under 160 with a short boundary on one side. Nosthush Kenjige was the standout bowler with figures of 3/30, supported by Saurabh Netravalkar’s 2/18.
The USA openers, Monank Patel and Steven Taylor, started positively. Monank Patel’s 50 off 38 balls and Andries Gous’ 35 off 26 balls forged a crucial 68-run partnership. Aaron Jones, who had impressed with a sensational 94* against Canada, played a pivotal role in the chase against Pakistan.
With 12 runs needed off three balls, Jones’ maximum towards deep mid-wicket off Haris Rauf kept USA’s hopes alive. Nitish Kumar’s boundary off the last ball forced the game into a Super Over.
Veteran pacer Mohammad Amir bowled the crucial Super Over for Pakistan. However, a combination of extras, over-throws, and a boundary allowed USA to score 18 runs. Monank Patel entrusted Saurabh Netravalkar with the Super Over bowling duties. Despite initial pressure, Netravalkar claimed Iftikhar Ahmed’s wicket, and Shadab Khan’s boundary couldn’t save Pakistan. USA sealed a historic five-run victory, marking a significant milestone in their cricketing journey.
Netravalkar, reflecting on his journey, said, “It’s a very humbling feeling that life has given me a second chance to pursue what I love doing.” His performance epitomized the team’s spirit and determination.
With this result, Pakistan risks failing to reach the Super 8 phase. The Men in Green, semifinalists in six of the eight T20 World Cups, face a disappointing campaign if they cannot bounce back against arch-rivals India on Sunday, June 9.
USA skipper Monank Patel believes this landmark victory over Pakistan will significantly boost cricket in the United States. “Beating Pakistan in the World Cup will open many doors for us,” he stated, underscoring the victory’s potential impact on the sport’s growth in the USA.
Certainly, USA’s commanding performance against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2024 has etched itself into history as the biggest upset in the tournament’s history.
