In a thrilling T20 World Cup opener, the USA defeated former champions, Pakistan, through a Super Over. Despite Rizwan's heroic performance for Pakistan, the team fell just short of the USA's total of 159 for three. This upset victory for the USA marks a promising start to their T20 World Cup journey.
USA Stuns Pakistan in Thrilling T20 World Cup Opener
In a dramatic upset, the United States cricket team defeated former champions Pakistan in a thrilling T20 World Cup opener on Thursday, October 16, 2023. The nail-biting match went to a Super Over, with the USA ultimately prevailing by four wickets.
Background
The USA had entered the tournament as significant underdogs, having never defeated Pakistan in an international match. However, they had shown signs of improvement in recent years, reaching the knockout stages of the 2022 ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier.
Pakistan, on the other hand, were considered one of the favorites to win the title. They had won the 2009 T20 World Cup and reached the final in 2007 and 2021.
Match Summary
In a high-scoring affair at the Sydney Cricket Ground, the USA batted first and posted a challenging total of 159 for three. Opener Gajanand Singh top-scored with 62, while captain Monank Patel contributed 57.
Pakistan responded with a spirited chase, with openers Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan putting on a century partnership. However, they were unable to maintain the momentum and finished just short of the target, posting 152 for five.
The match went to a Super Over, where the USA chased down Pakistan's total of 14 with four wickets to spare. Rizwan's 82 off 53 balls proved to be in vain, as the USA secured a historic victory.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why was this victory so significant for the USA?
This victory marked the first time the USA had ever defeated Pakistan in an international cricket match. It also represented a major breakthrough for the team, which has been aiming to establish itself as a competitive force on the world stage.
2. What factors contributed to the USA's victory?
The USA's aggressive batting approach, disciplined bowling, and fielding prowess all played a role in their success. They also benefited from some poor decision-making and sloppy fielding from Pakistan.
3. What does this victory mean for Pakistan?
This defeat is a major setback for Pakistan, who were widely expected to reach the latter stages of the tournament. It also raises questions about the team's form and preparation ahead of the upcoming matches.
4. What are the implications for the rest of the T20 World Cup?
The USA's victory has sent shockwaves through the tournament and has opened up the possibility of more upsets in the remaining matches. It also highlights the rising competitiveness of associate nations in world cricket.
5. What are the next challenges for both teams?
The USA will face India in their next match on October 19, while Pakistan will take on New Zealand on October 20. Both teams will be determined to bounce back from their results in their opening games.
The second day of the first Test between South Africa and Bangladesh saw a dominant performance by the Proteas, led by Kyle Verreynne's century. Despite a few hiccups, South Africa ended the day with the first-innings advantage, thanks to Verreynne and Dane Piedt's strong stand. Bangladeshi batsmen struggled against the South African bowlers, but Mahmudul Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim's partnership brought stability to their team before the close of the day.
Mumbai's selection panel has dropped Prithvi Shaw from their team for the Ranji Trophy game against Tripura due to his lack of attendance at practice sessions and being overweight. The 24-year-old, who scored a hundred in his debut Test against West Indies, has faced off-field issues and injuries that have hindered his career progress. Former Australia player Ricky Ponting, who worked with Shaw at Delhi Capitals, also spoke about the batter's problems. Shaw's attitude and weight issues seem to have cost him potential spots in both domestic and national teams.
The eleventh season of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL 11) is underway and the excitement is palpable. With all the teams playing their opening games and no draws yet, the competition is fiercer than ever. After securing a hard-fought win against Bengal Warriors, the Jaipur Pink Panthers will face off against Telugu Titans, who have a mixed record so far. The Pink Panthers will look to continue their momentum, while the Titans will aim for a comeback after a loss to Tamil Thalaivas. With a history of close matches between the two teams, this is definitely not one to miss.
The former Australian opener, who announced his retirement earlier this year, has expressed his willingness to return to the national team for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. With Australia needing a strong start in the series, Warner's availability could prove to be a game changer. The 37-year-old pointed out that he has had a similar preparation as the other players and will use his time in the Sheffield Shield to regain his form and fitness.
Bayern Munich star Joshua Kimmich is set to face his former coach, Hansi Flick, when his current team takes on FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League. With his contract expiring soon, Kimmich has been linked to the Catalan giants for over a year. The player himself has admitted that this match will be special for him, not only because of his potential transfer, but also due to the reunion with Flick, who played a pivotal role in his growth as a versatile player. Kimmich also compared his former teammate, Robert Lewandowski, with his current teammate, Harry Kane, highlighting the different styles they bring to their respective teams.
After suffering their first defeat of the season to Bournemouth, Arsenal are gearing up to face Shakhtar Donetsk in the newly revamped Champions League League Phase. The Gunners may be without Bukayo Saka due to a hamstring injury, while captain Martin Ødegaard is also currently unfit. As both teams fight for a top spot in the league, fans can catch the match for free.
Bangladesh is fighting to save the first Test against South Africa as they reached 101-3 at stumps, still needing 101 runs to avoid an innings defeat. Mahmudul Hasan Joy (38) and Mushfiqur Rahim (31) showed resilience and remained unbeaten at the end of play, with their 42-run stand for the fourth wicket. Additionally, Mushfiqur became the first Bangladeshi to cross 6,000 career Test runs. South Africa's Kyle Verreynne's century helped the visitors secure a 202-run lead with a total of 308 in their first innings.
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) in England has proposed a non-contact version of rugby to be introduced in schools as a way to tackle declining youth participation and concerns over head injuries. An independent review found that many schools with strong rugby traditions are no longer playing the sport due to safety concerns. This move aims to make the game more accessible and inclusive, while still retaining traditional elements such as line-outs and scrums. The RFU also plans to continue offering full-contact rugby for older players.
Glasgow, Scotland has been selected to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games, bringing the multi-sport event back to their city after a successful 2014 run. With a focus on accessibility and showcasing top athletes, Glasgow 2026 will feature a compact programme of 10 sports across four venues. The event is expected to bring in over £100 million in investment and is set to have a unique branding that highlights the Commonwealth Games' role in the larger Commonwealth Sport Movement.
Central Coast Mariners are looking to turn around their underwhelming start in the AFC Champions League as they face off against Shanghai Port, managed by former A-League title winner, Kevin Muscat. With both teams desperate for a win, the stakes are high as Mariners coach, Mark Jackson, remains confident after their recent A-League draw against Melbourne Victory. However, Port will be looking to bounce back after a costly defeat in the Chinese Super League, slipping to second place in the standings.