MUMBAI: India began their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a solid 29-run win over the USA in the third match of the tournament, thanks to an exceptional innings by Suryakumar Yadav and disciplined bowling from the home side.
Electing to bat first, India struggled initially against a well-structured USA bowling attack, managing 161-9 in 20 overs. Opener Abhishek Sharma was dismissed for a duck in the second over, failing to mark his World Cup debut. Ishan Kishan then partnered with Tilak Varma to add 37 runs for the second wicket. However, Shadley van Schalkwyk’s remarkable triple-wicket over reduced India to 46-4 by the end of the powerplay, leaving the hosts in a precarious position.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav, however, took charge of the innings, crafting a patient and calculated knock. He stitched key partnerships, first with Rinku Singh, adding 26 runs, before accelerating in the final overs. His unbeaten 84 off 49 balls, laced with four sixes and ten boundaries, ensured India crossed the 150-run mark and set a challenging target for the USA.
The USA innings began poorly, losing three top-order batters within the first three overs and slipping to 13-3. Milind Kumar and Sanjay Krishnamurthi attempted to stabilize the innings with a 58-run partnership, though at a slow rate, consuming 52 balls. Varun Chakravarthy then ended the resistance, breaking the partnership and giving India a firm grip on the match.
Despite some resistance, the USA never got close to India’s total, finishing at 132-8 in 20 overs. Shadley van Schalkwyk was the standout bowler, claiming four wickets, while Harmeet Singh supported with two economical dismissals. Only Saurabh Netravalkar had a forgettable day with the ball, conceding 65 runs without taking a wicket.
India’s combination of a composed captain’s innings and disciplined bowling proved decisive. The team showcased resilience under pressure, recovering from early setbacks to secure a winning start to their T20 World Cup journey.
The victory not only highlighted Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership and batting prowess but also reaffirmed India’s depth in both batting and bowling as they look ahead to the rest of the tournament.
Read More: ICC Announces Star Commentary Panel for T20 World Cup 2026
