The United States achieved a monumental upset in cricket by defeating Pakistan in a super over during a T20 World Cup match in Dallas. This unexpected triumph has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, showcasing the growing competitiveness of American cricket.
The thrilling match saw Pakistan nearly avoid an upset before Nitish Kumar’s boundary on the final ball of the US innings tied the scores at 159. Pakistan’s performance faltered during the super over, with Mohammad Amir conceding three wides, one of which allowed the US to gain two extra runs. The US managed to scramble 18-1 in the tie-breaker, setting a challenging target of 19 for Pakistan.
Saurabh Netravalkar, a left-arm seamer, defended the score brilliantly. A crucial moment came when Kumar made an impressive catch at long-off to dismiss Iftikhar Ahmed, leaving Pakistan needing 14 runs off the last four balls. With seven required off the final delivery, Shadab Khan could only manage a single, igniting jubilant celebrations among the American players and supporters.
Earlier in the match, Pakistan had recovered from a precarious 26-3, thanks to an astonishing catch by America’s Steven Taylor, to post a total of 159-7. The US appeared to be cruising in their chase, needing only 56 runs from seven overs with nine wickets in hand, but Pakistan’s late surge forced the super over.
This victory marks the first major upset in the expanded T20 World Cup, enhancing the US team’s prospects of reaching the Super Eights. Having already defeated Canada in their opening game, the US may only need one more win in their remaining group matches against India and Ireland to secure a spot in the next round.
For Pakistan, this loss puts them at risk of an early exit. As former champions in 2009 and runners-up in 2022, they must regroup quickly for their high-stakes match against arch-rivals India in New York on Sunday.
