USA sets a target of 197 for Netherlands (photos)
The innings began shakily for the USA, with opener Shayan Jahangir dismissed for 20 by Kyle Klein at 27/1 in the third over.
KATHMANDU: Saiteja Mukkamalla’s explosive half-century propelled the United States of America to a formidable 196/6 in a crucial ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 encounter against the Netherlands at MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday.
Opting to field first, Netherlands captain Scott Edwards watched his strategy backfire as the USA posted a challenging total in their 20 overs.
The innings began shakily for the USA, with opener Shayan Jahangir dismissed for 20 by Kyle Klein at 27/1 in the third over.
Captain Monank Patel then joined Mukkamalla to steady the ship, forging a vital 45-run partnership for the second wicket.
Patel’s stay ended in the ninth over, caught off Bas de Leede’s deceptive slower ball for 36 off 22 balls, including three boundaries and a six.
The USA faced another wobble when Sanjay Krishnamurthi fell cheaply for just one run to Fred Klaassen, leaving the team at 105/3 in 11 overs.
It was then that Mukkamalla took charge, constructing a crucial 54-run fourth-wicket stand with Shubham Ranjane.
Mukkamalla eventually fell to de Leede, finishing unbeaten with a brilliant 79 off 51 balls, hitting five fours and four sixes.
Ranjane played a blistering cameo at the end, remaining unbeaten on 48 from 24 deliveries, ensuring the USA ended with a strong total.
For the Netherlands, Bas de Leede led the bowling with figures of 3/37, while Logan van Beek, Fred Klaassen, and Kyle Klein picked up a wicket each.
The stage is now set for an intriguing run chase as the Netherlands look to chase down a challenging 197.
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