T20 World Cup, Group A, New York
USA 110-8 (20 overs): Nitish Kumar 27 (23); Arshdeep Singh 4-9
India 111-3 (18.2 overs): Suryakumar Yadav 50* (49), Netravalkar 2-18
India won by seven wickets
Scorecard | Table
Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeaten half-century guided India to the Super 8s of the T20 World Cup, overcoming a tense match against co-hosts USA by seven wickets.
Arshdeep Singh's exceptional performance with the ball, yielding figures of 4-9, helped restrict the USA to 110-8. Nitish Kumar led the scoring for the USA with a composed 27 off 23 balls, but their total appeared modest against India’s strong batting line up.
However, a nervous energy enveloped the India-supporting crowd in New York as their team stumbled early in their chase. Virat Kohli was dismissed for a golden duck by Saurabh Netravalkar, followed by Rohit Sharma’s departure for 10-2, leaving India in a precarious position.
A crucial turning point came when Netravalkar dropped a catch in the 13th over, which would have sent Suryakumar back to the pavilion. Suryakumar, recognising his fortune, took full advantage alongside Shivam Dube, who remained unbeaten on 31 from 35 balls. The pair eventually guided India to their target with ten balls to spare.
Despite the defeat, the USA can still advance to the Super 8s if they either win or avoid a loss against Ireland in their final group match in Florida or if the game is washed out.
Kohli’s Struggles Continue Amid India’s Narrow Victory
For Virat Kohli, the T20 World Cup in New York has been challenging. After an exceptional IPL season where he was the top scorer, Kohli has struggled to find form, with scores of four, one, and zero in his last three outings on the tricky pitches of Eisenhower Park.
Off the field, Kohli has enjoyed a peaceful stay in Manhattan with his wife, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, away from the intense scrutiny they face at home. However, his on-field performances have not mirrored his serene off-field life, as he has yet to make a significant impact in the tournament.
The USA's earlier upset win over Pakistan might have fueled some nervousness among the Indian fans, especially when Rishabh Pant, a key player in India’s win over Pakistan, was clean-bowled by Ali Khan. Suryakumar, known for his aggressive 360-degree play, chose a more restrained approach to steer India through the tense moments.
A pivotal moment saw Netravalkar, a part-time software engineer and former India Under-19 player, drop Suryakumar’s top-edge catch. This missed opportunity allowed Suryakumar and Dube to secure the win comfortably.
USA Reflects on Missed Opportunities Against India
Had the USA managed to score closer to 130, India might have faced an even tougher challenge. Arshdeep Singh set the tone by dismissing Shayan Jahangir with the very first delivery, followed by another quick wicket as he tempted Andries Gous into a rash shot.
Aaron Jones, who had been instrumental in the USA’s victories over Canada and Pakistan, couldn't replicate his Texas performances on the slower New York pitch. Mohammed Siraj used this moment, luring Jones into a top-edge to fine leg for just 11.
The USA’s innings might have collapsed entirely if not for Nitish Kumar’s aggressive stroke play during the middle overs. His powerful six off Hardik Pandya and subsequent elegant straight drive added some much-needed runs before he was spectacularly caught by Siraj.
Corey Anderson provided a late boost with his skilful batting against Jasprit Bumrah, adding crucial lower-order runs. Despite their efforts, the USA’s bowling attack couldn’t fully contain India’s chase, compounded by a five-run penalty for slow overrates, which further reduced their chances.
Nonetheless, the USA's progress to the Super 8s remains in their hands, depending on the outcome of their final group match against Ireland.