The United States of America (USA) made history by defeating Pakistan in the super over of their T20 World Cup 2024 match on June 6. This was the first T20I between these two teams.

USA captain Monank Patel won the toss and chose to bowl first. Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan (9), Usman Khan (3), Fakhar Zaman (11), and Azam Khan (0) struggled against the American bowlers.

Babar Azam held one end and, along with Shadab Khan (40 off 25 balls), helped Pakistan recover. They put together a 72-run partnership for the fourth wicket before Shadab was dismissed. Babar Azam continued to anchor the innings until he was dismissed by Jasdeep Singh after scoring 44 runs off 43 balls, including three fours and two sixes.

Pakistan ended their innings at 159/7 after 20 overs, with Nosthush Kenjige being the standout bowler for the USA, picking up 3/30.

In response, captain Monank Patel scored a crucial 50 runs, forming important partnerships with Andries Gous (35) and Aaron Jones (36*). Although the USA faced some challenges in the middle overs, Jones and Nitish Kumar ensured they had a manageable target in the final over.

With 15 needed off the last 6 balls bowled by Haris Rauf, Jones hit a six, and Kumar hit a four off the final ball to tie the match.

In the super over, Mohammad Amir bowled poorly, conceding 18 runs, including wides and a four from Aaron Jones.

Chasing 19 to win the super over, Iftikhar Ahmed and Fakhar Zaman came out to face Saurabh Netravalkar. Although Iftikhar hit a four, he was dismissed soon after. Pakistan managed only 13/1 in the super over, falling short of the target.

The USA players celebrated their victory, marking their second win over a full-member Test nation in T20Is, after Bangladesh. Monank Patel was named Player of the Match for his brilliant 50. The USA will next face India on June 12 in New York, while Pakistan will take on India on June 9, also in New York.

The cricket community praised the USA team for their spirited victory over Pakistan in this thrilling encounter.