T20 World Cup: USA post 196 for 6 against Netherlands in Group A clash

CHENNAI: USA put up an imposing 196 for 6 in their 20 overs against the Netherlands in the 21st match of Group A at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after being asked to bat first.

The Netherlands won the toss and opted to field, but USA’s batters capitalised on a solid platform and late acceleration to finish just shy of the 200-mark.

Captain Monank Patel set the tone early with a brisk 36 off 22 balls, while Shayan Jahangir chipped in with a handy 20 from 14 deliveries to keep the momentum going in the Powerplay.

The backbone of the innings, however, was Saiteja Mukkamalla, who produced a commanding 79 off 51 balls. Mixing composure with calculated aggression, he anchored the innings through the middle overs and ensured USA did not lose control despite regular wickets.

In the death overs, Shubham Ranjane provided the finishing flourish, smashing an unbeaten 48 off 24 balls to propel USA to a formidable 196. His late burst tilted the contest firmly in USA’s favour.

For the Netherlands, Bas de Leede was the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets in his four overs, though the rest of the attack struggled to contain the scoring, especially at the back end.

USA’s strong batting display — built on a solid middle-order partnership and explosive finishing — has put the Netherlands under significant pressure in a crucial Group A encounter. A total close to 200 on a Chennai surface could prove decisive as USA look to strengthen their position in the standings.