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.
India’s top order faltered under pressure from USA’s disciplined bowling attack. Openers Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan fell early, leaving the hosts reeling at 46/4 inside the powerplay.
South African-born Shadley van Schalkwyk was the star for USA with the ball, claiming 4/25 and dismantling India’s middle order.
However, Suryakumar’s aggressive innings, laced with powerful boundaries and clever placement, turned the tide. He shared crucial partnerships with Axar Patel and Mohammed Siraj lower down the order, accelerating in the death overs to set a challenging target.
Chasing 162, USA started steadily but crumbled against India’s pace attack. Mohammed Siraj, making a strong comeback, spearheaded the bowling with figures of 3/29, dismissing key batsmen including Monank Patel and Aaron Jones.
Arshdeep Singh and Axar Patel chipped in with two wickets each, restricting USA to 132/8.
Shubham Ranjane top-scored for USA with a fighting 35, but it wasn’t enough as India’s bowlers maintained tight lines and exploited the Wankhede pitch’s bounce.
This win marks India’s ninth consecutive victory in T20 World Cups and extends their unbeaten streak against associate nations.
The result boosts India’s momentum as they prepare for tougher Group A clashes ahead.
Match Scorecard Summary
| Team | Score | Key Performers |
|——|——–|—————–|
| India | 161/9 (20 overs) | Suryakumar Yadav 84* (49), Axar Patel 22 (18) |
| USA | 132/8 (20 overs) | Shubham Ranjane 35 (28), Shadley van Schalkwyk 4/25 |
