Pakistan delivered a solid all-round performance to beat the United States by 32 runs in their Group A match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Colombo. After putting up a strong total of 190 for 9, the Men in Green used disciplined bowling to keep the USA under control and secure their second win of the tournament.
The victory helped Pakistan recover from their earlier struggles against the Netherlands and showed better batting intent and control in the middle overs.
Pakistan Batters Set The Game Up
Batting first, Pakistan got off to a positive start thanks to Sahibzada Farhan, who played the key knock of the match. He scored 73 runs off 41 balls and looked in complete control during the power play. His intent allowed Pakistan to build early momentum.
Babar Azam supported well with a calm 46, holding one end steady. In the final overs, Shadab Khan added quick runs with a sharp 30 off just 12 balls. Pakistan used the middle and death overs better than in their previous match and crossed the 190-run mark, which skipper Salman Ali Agha later said gave them confidence to defend the total.
USA Struggle In Middle Overs During Chase
Chasing 191, the USA started with intent but failed to keep the run rate steady in the middle overs. Shubham Ranjane fought hard with 51 off 30 balls, while Shayan Jahangir missed out on a half-century with 49. However, the lack of partnerships hurt the chase.
Pakistan spinners slowed the game down and took wickets at key moments. Usman Tariq picked up 3 for 27, while Shadab Khan claimed 2 for 26. USA captain Monank Patel admitted that conceding too many runs in the middle overs while bowling and showing less intent while batting cost his side the match.
Salman Agha praised the improved batting effort and said Pakistan were more clinical compared to their previous outing. The USA, meanwhile, will look to correct minor mistakes as they head to Chennai for their next game.
Pakistan stayed in control throughout the key phases of the match and secured a convincing win that strengthened their position in Group A.
