NEW DELHI: The 2024
T20 World Cup
has been brought to the United States of America in a bid to promote cricket, and the co-hosts USA in their maiden appearance at the showpiece event showed the world what they are capable of.
USA's fairytale journey in the tournament began with an emphatic seven-wicket win over Canada, showcasing their strong start. But what followed left an indelible mark in their nascent journey in the game of cricket.
They pulled off a major shock in world cricket when they inflicted a humiliating Super Over defeat on Pakistan on Thursday.
This victory is being hailed as one of the biggest upsets in cricket history.
T20 World Cup 2024: Points Table | Schedule
After emerging victorious in both their Group A matches, USA will have a task cut out as they face inaugural T20 World Cup champions India at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on Wednesday. This will be the first cricket match between India and USA across any format.
India, who also remained unbeaten so far in the tournament, will need to be wary of the threat USA can pose against them and avoid complacency to maintain their winning streak in the tournament.
Here's a look at the top 5 USA players to watch out for who can get Rohit Sharma's men on the mat:
Aaron Jones
USA batter Aaron Jones has been in scintillating form in the T20 World Cup, showcasing his batting prowess against Canada and Pakistan. In the match against Canada, Jones played an unbeaten knock of 94 runs off just 40 balls, which included 10 sixes and 4 boundaries at an impressive strike rate of 235. His innings was instrumental in helping the USA chase down a formidable target of 195 runs.
He carried his sublime form into the next game against Pakistan, where he once again played a crucial role in his team's success. He scored an unbeaten 36 runs off 26 balls, smashing two sixes and as many fours to help the USA tie the game and force it into a Super Over. In the Super Over, Jones continued his heroics, scoring 11 runs and leading his team to a thrilling victory. With his outstanding performances, Jones has not only registered the highest individual score in the ongoing T20 World Cup but has also emerged as a key player for the USA team.
Saurabh Netravalkar
Saurabh Netravalkar, the Super Over hero for the USA, made a significant impact in their historic victory against Pakistan. Despite a modest performance in his first match against Canada, where he conceded 16 runs in two overs without taking a wicket. The 32-year-old software engineer at Oracle showcased his skills in the crucial encounter. Netravalkar proved to be the most economical bowler for the USA, giving away just 18 runs in his four-over spell and claiming two wickets.
In the high-pressure Super Over against Pakistan, Netravalkar was entrusted with the responsibility of defending 19 runs. He rose to the occasion, conceding only nine runs and dismissing Iftikhar Ahmed. Given his experience and recent performance, Netravalkar is expected to be the USA's go-to bowler against India.
Andries Gous
Andries Gous has been instrumental in his team's success in their first two matches of the T20 World Cup 2024. In the opening game against Canada, batting at number 3, Gous contributed a crucial 65 runs off 46 deliveries, smashing three sixes and seven boundaries.
In the second match against Pakistan, he maintained his form, scoring 35 runs at an impressive strike rate of over 134. Having accumulated 100 runs in the first two games, Gous is expected to play a key role in USA's upcoming encounter with India.
Corey Anderson
The former New Zealand all-rounder Corey Anderson has become the fifth cricketer to represent two nations at the T20 World Cup. Currently playing for the United States, Anderson brings a wealth of international experience to the team as they prepare to face India.
Although his contributions in the first two games were limited, it is anticipated that Anderson will take on greater responsibilities in the upcoming match. His left-arm pace bowling and explosive middle-order batting skills are expected to play a crucial role against the Indian side.
Monank Patel
USA captain Monank Patel had a modest performance in the first match against Canada, contributing 16 runs at a strike rate of 100, including two boundaries. Despite his limited impact in the opening game, Patel showcased his batting prowess in the subsequent encounter against Pakistan.
Chasing a challenging target of 160 runs, the USA opener rose to the occasion and scored a crucial half-century against Pakistan's formidable bowling attack. His valuable contribution played a significant role in his team's pursuit of the target.
As Team USA prepares to face India in their upcoming match, they will heavily depend on Patel to provide a solid foundation at the top of the order. His ability to navigate through the initial overs and set the tone for the innings will be crucial to the team's success against a strong Indian side.
English (US) ·