COLOMBO: Riding on explosive half-century from Sahibzada Farhan, and explosive 30 runs innings from Shadab Khan, Pakistan posted a challenging total of 190 for nine against the United States of America in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Group A clash at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) on Tuesday.
Explosive start and solid foundation
Choosing to field first after winning the toss, USA saw their decision challenged early as Pakistan’s openers launched a brisk attack. Saim Ayub (19 off 17) provided the initial spark, but it was Sahibzada Farhan who truly ignited the innings. He smashed a blistering 73 off just 41 balls, including six fours and five sixes, at a strike rate of 178.
Sahibzada Farhan’s brisk fifty against USA in Colombo is among @marriottbonvoy Milestones of #T20WorldCup 2026 👊 pic.twitter.com/llq7YERXz5
— ICC (@ICC) February 10, 2026
The foundation was solidified further by the experienced Babar Azam, who contributed a fluent 46 off 32 deliveries. Their 81-run partnership for the third wicket propelled Pakistan to a commanding position of 137-3 by the 14th over.
USA fight back with clinical death bowling
The American bowlers staged a remarkable comeback in the final five overs, claiming six Pakistani wickets for just 53 runs. Shadley van Schalkwyk was the chief architect of the collapse, finishing with excellent figures of 4 for 25 in his four overs. He was ably supported by Saurabh Netravalkar (1/40) and Mohammad Mohsin (1/27).
Quickfire cameos from Shadab Khan (30 off 12) and Shaheen Shah Afridi (9* off 4) helped Pakistan scramble to their final total, but the late wickets gave the USA a significant boost.
Target and chase outlook
The USA, who famously defeated Pakistan in a Super Over during the 2024 World Cup, now face a steep chase of 191 runs. Their bowling unit, led by van Schalkwyk’s four-wicket haul, will be pleased with their late efforts to restrict the flow of runs.
The American batting lineup, led by captain Monank Patel and the in-form Andries Gous, must now produce a historic performance to chase down the target and secure another major upset.
The stage is set for a second innings as the USA looks to repeat history against a Pakistani side defending a strong but chaseable total.
