Pakistan delivered a clinical performance to defeat USA by 32 runs in T20 World Cup 2026’s pivotal Group A clash at Colombo’s Sinhalese Sports Club on Tuesday. With consecutive victories now under their belt, Pakistan surged to the summit of the points table, boasting a net run rate of +0.932.
Forced to bat after losing the toss, Pakistan’s batters unleashed havoc, amassing 190/9. Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan’s explosive 54-run opening partnership in 5.1 overs set the tone. Ayub’s 19 (17 balls, 1×4, 2×6) ended prematurely, followed by Salman Agha’s duck-like one run.
Sahibzada Farhan then took charge, partnering Babar Azam for a vital 81-run stand that lifted Pakistan to 137/3. Farhan’s masterful 73 (41 balls, 6×4, 5×6) was the standout, with Babar contributing 46 (32 balls, 5×4). Lower down, Shadab Khan’s blistering 30 (12 balls, 5×4) and Mohammad Nawaz’s support pushed the score higher in a 34-run fifth-wicket alliance.
USA’s bowlers fought back led by Sheldley van Schalkwyk’s 4/25. Saurabh Netravalkar, Mohammad Mohsin, and Harmeet Singh picked up single wickets each.
USA’s chase faltered early despite a 42-run powerplay from Andries Gous (13) and Shayn Jahangir (49 off 34, 5×4, 2×6). At 69/3, Milind Kumar (29) and Shubham Ranjane (51 off 30, 6×4) added 54 runs, but the required rate proved too steep.
Usman Tariq’s 3/27 turned the match, his near-hat-trick in the 19th over dismissing key lower-order batsmen. Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, and Mohammad Nawaz sealed the deal with wickets. Pakistan’s bowlers defended stoutly, cementing their top position and boosting morale for upcoming fixtures.
