In a gripping start to their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, defending champions India overcame an early batting collapse to secure a 29-run victory against the United States of America at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav led from the front with an unbeaten 84 off 49 balls, rescuing his team from a precarious 77/6 and propelling them to a competitive 161/9 in 20 overs.
The match, the third in the tournament and the Group A opener for both sides, saw USA captain Monank Patel win the toss and elect to field first, hoping to exploit the evening conditions.
The hosts were in deep trouble at 77-6 after being put in to bat. USA’s bowlers, including three Mumbai-born players, had India on the ropes.
Starting slowly to rebuild, Suryakumar gradually accelerated. His trademark scoops and flicks delighted the Mumbai crowd as he single-handedly dragged India to 161-9.
Chasing 162, USA needed a strong start but India’s bowlers struck early. Despite some resistance, USA could only manage 132-8 in their 20 overs.
--Agencies
