Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium witnessed a dominant display from the USA as they outclassed Namibia by 31 runs in a crucial Group A match of the T20 World Cup 2026. This result strengthens USA’s position in the group, following their earlier triumph.
USA skipper Monank Patel called correctly at the toss and chose to set a target. Patel’s explosive 52 from 30 balls laid the foundation, complemented by Sanjay Krishnamurti’s match-defining 68 off 33. Milind Kumar’s 28 off 20 ensured the team posted 199 for 4. Namibia’s bowlers, led by Erasmus and Mhayburg with two wickets each, fought back but couldn’t restrict the scoring.
Namibia’s chase began promisingly. Frylinck and Steenkamp raced to 54 in the powerplay, but Frylinck’s 19 off 15 ended the partnership. Steenkamp, joined by Loftie-Eaton, pushed the score to 99 before the latter fell for 28 off 17. Steenkamp’s gritty 58, laced with boundaries and sixes, kept hopes alive until his wicket sparked a middle-order meltdown.
Erasmus couldn’t stabilize the innings, and despite Smit’s 31 off 23, Namibia managed only 168 for 6. USA’s bowlers shone: van Schalkwyk with 2/xx, and Khan, Netravalkar, and Ranjane with one each.
Krishnamurti’s fiery knock was pivotal, clinching him Player of the Match honors. As the tournament progresses, USA emerges as a force to reckon with, blending power-hitting and smart bowling.