Chennai’s iconic Chepauk stadium witnessed a record-equaling masterclass from USA’s rising star Saitaja Mukkamalla. The 21-year-old prodigy bludgeoned 79 runs from 51 deliveries against Netherlands in T20 World Cup 2026, clinching a joint-record for most T20I half-centuries by an American.
With this seventh fifty in only 20 innings, Saitaja has drawn level with skipper Monank Patel, who needed 39 knocks to reach the mark. Andries Gous trails with six in 26 innings, and Steven Taylor has five from 29 outings. Batting first after losing the toss, USA posted 196/6, a total that showcased their resilience.
Openers Monank and Shayan Jahangir laid a solid 27-run foundation in 2.5 overs before Jahangir’s 20 off 14 ended. Monank’s aggressive 36 off 22, including three fours and a six, paired with Saitaja’s composure, yielded 55 runs for the second wicket in 37 balls.
Saitaja’s stay extended into a crucial 54-run stand with Shubham Ranjane for the fourth wicket. Ranjane’s unbeaten 48 off 24 complemented Saitaja’s boundary-laden 79 (5×4, 4×6). Bas de Leede claimed 3/37 for Netherlands, with others chipping in one each.
After early tournament setbacks—a 29-run defeat to India and 32-run loss to Pakistan—this innings could spark USA’s campaign in Group A.