by: TN Media News Pakistan:
In a thrilling encounter at the T20 World Cup 2024, India triumphed over the USA, ensuring their progression to the second round of the tournament. The match, held at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, witnessed a spectacular display of cricketing prowess from both teams, but it was India who emerged victorious, much to the delight of the home crowd.
Match Highlights: Winning the toss, the USA opted to bat first, aiming to set a formidable target for the Indian team. Their innings got off to a steady start, with openers Jaskaran Malhotra and Steven Taylor providing a solid foundation. Malhotra’s aggressive approach yielded a quick-fire 45 runs off 28 balls, featuring five boundaries and two towering sixes. Taylor contributed a patient 35 runs, anchoring the innings as the USA reached 140/3 at the halfway mark.
India’s bowlers, however, made a strong comeback in the latter half of the innings. Yuzvendra Chahal’s spin wizardry resulted in key wickets, including the crucial dismissal of USA captain Monank Patel for 20. Chahal’s 3/25, along with Jasprit Bumrah’s tight death-over bowling, restricted the USA to a total of 178/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Chasing 179 for victory, India got off to a shaky start, losing opener Rohit Sharma early to a sharp inswinger from Saurabh Netravalkar. However, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul steadied the innings with a brilliant partnership. Kohli’s masterful 72 off 49 balls, laced with exquisite cover drives and deft placements, kept India’s chase on track. Rahul’s supportive 56 off 42 balls provided the perfect foil to Kohli’s aggression.
The turning point came in the 17th over when Kohli, with a flurry of boundaries, took the attack to the USA bowlers, bringing India within touching distance of the target. Despite a late scare with Rahul’s dismissal, the experienced duo of Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja ensured there were no further hiccups. Pandya’s unbeaten 18 off 10 balls, including a winning six, sealed the victory for India with three balls to spare.
Player of the Match: Virat Kohli was deservedly named the Player of the Match for his match-winning knock, which exemplified his class and composure under pressure. Speaking at the post-match presentation, Kohli praised the USA team for their spirited performance and acknowledged the importance of the win for India’s campaign.
Looking Ahead: With this victory, India has secured a berth in the second round of the T20 World Cup 2024, maintaining their unbeaten record in the group stage. The win not only boosts their morale but also cements their status as one of the favorites in the tournament. Meanwhile, the USA, despite the loss, earned respect for their competitive spirit and will look to bounce back stronger in their remaining matches.
As the T20 World Cup progresses, cricket fans around the globe can expect more thrilling contests and outstanding performances, keeping the spirit of the game alive and kicking.
