After a 7-wicket defeat to India in the ICC T20 World Cup, USA's interim captain Aaron Jones remarked that a total of 130 could have posed a significant challenge for the 'Men in Blue'. Jones, reflecting on the match at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, acknowledged that their score of 110-8 was insufficient against a formidable Indian side. Arshdeep Singh’s impressive spell and the steady 72-run partnership between Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube were key to India's victory, securing their place in the Super 8 stage on Wednesday.
Jones expressed satisfaction with his team’s bowling performance, noting that they made India work hard for every run. The match seemed poised for a potential upset when India, chasing 111, found themselves struggling at 10/2 after early dismissals of star openers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma by Saurabh Netravalkar. Ali Khan’s subsequent dismissal of Rishabh Pant added to India’s troubles, but the USA couldn’t capitalise on these breakthroughs.
In a post-match interview, Jones reflected that if the USA had managed an additional 10-15 runs, it might have set a more challenging target for India. He praised his team’s disciplined bowling and took pride in their efforts. He noted, “If we had scored 130, it would have been a tough target. That’s the way it goes sometimes. The team was very disciplined, and I’m really proud of our bowling unit.”
Looking ahead, Jones mentioned that they would reassess their strategies and hold several meetings before their next match against Ireland at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Florida on Friday. He stated their enjoyment and commitment to developing USA Cricket, adding, "This is what we wanted for USA Cricket, and we’re enjoying it. We’ll recalibrate now, have a few meetings, and come back strong."
Discussing the conditions in New York, Jones highlighted the tricky pitch that favoured seam bowlers, which influenced their decision not to use spin. He also provided an update on captain Monank Patel, who missed the game against India due to a minor injury, stating that Patel should be fit for their final group match. “The wicket was tricky and suited seam bowling, hence no spin. Monank Patel is likely to be fit for the next game, just had a slight niggle,” he noted.
The USA will face Ireland in their final group match at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Florida on Friday, aiming to secure a spot in the Super 8.