Quick Read
- Pakistan defeated USA by 32 runs in a T20 World Cup 2026 match in Colombo.
- The victory avenged Pakistan’s surprising loss to USA in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
- Sahibzada Farhan was named Player of the Match for his 73 runs off 41 balls.
- Pakistan posted 190/9, while USA managed 158/8.
- Shadley van Schalkwyk was USA’s top bowler with 4/25.
COLOMBO (Azat TV) – The Pakistan national cricket team secured a crucial 32-run victory against the United States of America in a T20 World Cup 2026 group stage match held in Colombo on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. This win marked a significant moment for Pakistan, allowing them to avenge their shocking defeat to the USA in the previous T20 World Cup in 2024, a loss that contributed to their early exit from that tournament.
Pakistan, after being put in to bat, posted a challenging total of 190 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs. In response, the United States managed 158 for 8, falling short of the target. The match, closely watched by cricket enthusiasts globally, underlined Pakistan’s determination to rebound in the current tournament, especially after their previous struggles.
Pakistan’s Dominant Batting Performance Led by Farhan
Pakistan’s innings was anchored by a blistering half-century from opening batsman Sahibzada Farhan, who was later named Player of the Match for his outstanding contribution. Farhan scored 73 runs off just 41 deliveries, providing a strong foundation for his team. His aggressive hitting, including five maximums, ensured Pakistan maintained a high scoring rate throughout the middle overs. Captain Babar Azam also contributed with a well-made 46 runs off 32 balls, joining Farhan in an 81-run partnership that threatened to take the game away from the USA.
Despite a late surge from the USA’s Shadley van Schalkwyk, who claimed an impressive four wickets for 25 runs, Pakistan’s lower order, particularly Shadab Khan, ensured they reached a formidable total. Shadab’s quick cameo of 30 runs from just 12 balls in the death overs, including a six that brought up Pakistan’s 150, helped push the score past the 190-run mark, with Pakistan smashing 45 runs in their final four overs, according to Indian Express reports.
USA’s Spirited Chase and Fielding Efforts
Chasing 191, the United States started their innings with intent, reaching 50 for 1 by the end of the Powerplay. Openers Andries Gous and Shayan Jahangir showed promise, with Jahangir displaying an attacking mindset, hitting a six and multiple boundaries early on. However, Pakistan’s spinners, including Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab Khan, and Abrar Ahmed, gradually took control of the game, stifling the scoring rate and picking up crucial wickets.
USA captain Monank Patel, reflecting on the defeat, acknowledged that small errors made the difference and stressed the importance of finishing the World Cup strongly with two wins. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Shubham Ranjane fought valiantly, completing a fighting half-century, though his efforts were ultimately in vain as the required run rate soared. Usman Tariq was a key performer for Pakistan with the ball, picking up two wickets in two balls during the penultimate over, effectively sealing the match.
Revenge and Tournament Implications for Pakistan
This victory was more than just two points for Pakistan; it was a psychological triumph. Their unexpected loss to the USA in the 2024 T20 World Cup had been a significant setback, contributing to their group stage elimination despite winning their subsequent matches. The memory of that defeat, which also involved a loss to India, had cast a long shadow over their campaign.
The win in Colombo, therefore, provided Pakistan with crucial momentum as they prepare for a highly anticipated match against India on February 15. The pressure on the players, which would have been immense if they hadn’t secured this win, has now eased slightly, potentially allowing them to play with more freedom. For the USA, while their performance against India in their previous match demonstrated their growing experience, this defeat highlighted areas needing improvement as they aim to make a stronger impact in the tournament, as noted by Times of India coverage.
The decisive victory against the United States, particularly the manner in which Pakistan avenged their previous World Cup defeat, signals a renewed confidence within the squad, potentially serving as a critical turning point for their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign.