In match 3 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, defending champions India defeated the USA by 29 runs at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
India’s innings was a story of early failures and a spectacular counterattack by their captain. The hosts lost four wickets in the powerplay, including Abhishek Sharma and Shivam Dube for ducks, leaving them at 46/4 in the powerplay. Following the collapse, Suryakumar Yadav (84*) delivered a captain’s knock of the greatest order. Anchoring the innings, his undefeated knock contained 11 fours and four sixes at a strike rate of more than 170. His coolness against spin, along with planned aggressiveness in the middle and death overs, ensured India’s competitive total. The lower middle order provided support in patches, with Axar Patel (14) also helping India surpass the 160 mark. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Suryakumar’s domination helped India conclude on 161/9.
Chasing 162, the Monank Patel-led side never quite gained the necessary impetus. Early strikes by Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh reduced them to 13/3, placing immediate pressure on the middle order. Milind Kumar (34) and Sanjay Krishnamurthi (37) sought to rebuild, while Shubham Ranjane’s (37) quickfire knock temporarily sparked expectations. However, consistent wickets and an increasing necessary run rate hindered the chase. Despite some fight in the middle overs, the USA could only achieve 132/8, falling far short of their target.
India’s bowlers were disciplined, attacking early and never allowing the USA batters to relax. Siraj, making his comeback to the squad, led the assault with three wickets. Arshdeep and Axar provided solid support, each taking two wickets. Varun Chakaravarthy also took one wicket.
The USA bowlers performed admirably, particularly in the middle overs. Shadley van Schalkwyk had the best performance, taking four for 25, including crucial wickets that kept India from gaining momentum. Harmeet Singh also claimed two wickets with his tight spells, while Mohammad Mohsin and Ali Khan both took one. The inability to halt Suryakumar Yadav at the death proved costly, as India scored important runs in the final four overs.
With this win, India begin their title-defending campaign. They now take on Namibia next on February 12 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi.
Scorecard:
India: 161/9, Overs 20, Suryakumar Yadav 84*, Shadley van Schalkwyk 4/25
USA: 132/8, Overs 20, Shubham Ranjane 37, Mohammed Siraj 3/29
