Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium witnessed a seismic shift in T20 World Cup fortunes as the USA crushed the Netherlands by 93 runs, claiming the record for the biggest win by an associate team. The USA’s batsmen fired on all cylinders, reaching 196 for 6, before their bowlers ran riot.
Saitaja Mukkamalla’s explosive 79 off 51 balls, laced with 5 boundaries and 4 maximums, anchored the innings. Skipper Monank Patel contributed 36 off 22, and Shubham Ranjane’s unbeaten 48 off 24 ensured a challenging total. The opening stand with Shayn Jahangir yielded 27 runs quickly.
Defending the total, USA’s attack was lethal. Harmeet Singh’s 4-wicket haul dismantled the Dutch top order, while Shadley van Schalkwyk grabbed 3. Netherlands managed only 103 in 15.5 overs, with Bas de Leede’s 23 the highest score and Scott Edwards making 20.
Breaking new ground, this is USA’s maiden international victory over Netherlands after six prior defeats—three each in ODIs and T20s. It eclipses Nepal’s 80-run record against Hong Kong (2024), Scotland’s 73 over Italy (2016), Afghanistan’s 59 vs Zimbabwe (2016), and Namibia’s 55 vs Sri Lanka (2022).
Patel’s second-wicket alliance with Mukkamalla added 55 off 37 balls after Jahangir’s 20. Bas de Leede snared 3 for Netherlands but couldn’t stem the tide.
As associate teams continue to challenge the hierarchy, USA’s statement win positions them as dark horses, captivating cricket enthusiasts worldwide.