Pakistan Sets Target
Opting to bat first, Pakistan launched an aggressive opening against the USA. Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan strategically built their innings, crossing
the 50-run mark by the fifth over. However, Shadley van Schalkwyk managed to slow the scoring and provide the breakthrough for the USA, dismissing Ayub and then captain Salman Agha in quick succession. Pakistan concluded the powerplay at 56/2. Farhan then anchored the innings, forming a vital 81-run partnership with Babar Azam, who contributed a steady 46 runs. Farhan reached his maiden T20 World Cup half-century with an aggressive 73 off just 41 balls, smashing six boundaries and five maximums. Despite losing Farhan, Shadab Khan maintained the aggressive scoring, adding a quickfire 30 off 12 deliveries. In a late surge for runs, Pakistan lost five wickets in a rapid 10-ball span, concluding their innings at 190/9. Van Schalkwyk was the standout bowler for the USA, taking 4 wickets for 25 runs in his second spell.
USA's Chase Falters
Chasing a challenging target of 191, the USA openers provided a strong start, adding 42 runs for the first wicket during the powerplay. Mohammad Nawaz broke the partnership in his opening over, giving Pakistan the crucial breakthrough. Shadab Khan then intensified the pressure by taking two wickets quickly, including the vital scalp of USA captain Monank Patel, followed by the dismissal of Shayan Jahangir, who was building a promising innings of 49. Shubham Ranjane and Milind Kumar attempted to rebuild with a significant 54-run stand for the fourth wicket. However, Usman Tariq intervened decisively, claiming his first wicket and then taking two wickets in consecutive deliveries, reasserting Pakistan's dominance. Despite the fall of wickets, Ranjane fought resiliently to score a half-century. Pakistan's bowlers ensured no late surge from the USA, ultimately sealing a 32-run victory.
Match Winning Performance
Sahibzada Farhan's explosive 73 off 41 balls, featuring six fours and five sixes, was instrumental in setting a formidable 190/9 for Pakistan. Complementing the batting effort, Usman Tariq delivered a match-winning spell with the ball, taking three crucial wickets for just 27 runs. Shadab Khan also made a significant all-round contribution, scoring a brisk 30 off 12 deliveries and picking up two wickets for 26 runs. These stellar performances were key to Pakistan's second consecutive win in the T20 World Cup 2026, placing them at the top of Group A with four points from two matches.
