Pune & Mumbai stars shine for USA as it beats Netherlands to heat up the race
Beneath the bright lights of the MA Chidambaram Stadium, the USA adapted exceptionally, achieving a 93-run win against the Netherlands. The match saw humidity, dew, determination, and 21-year-old Saiteja Mukkamalla make a impact on the global scene with an impressive 79, while former India U-19 player Harmeet Singh disrupted the Dutch pursuit with a personal best of four wickets.
Mukkamalla script: 196-6
The USA openers displayed immediate determination when asked to bat first on a challenging Chepauk pitch. Although Shayan Jahangir led the initial burst of of sixes, it was Mukkamalla who crafted the innings.
Mukkamalla reached his half-century in just 30 balls, greeting the Dutch attack with fearless lofted drives and delicate cuts. He eventually holed out for 79 (51b, 5x4, 4x6).
Dutch deflation: Although Bas de Leede took three wickets, the Dutch bowlers faced challenges as the evening dew caused the ball to respond primarily to timing, making their strategies mostly ineffective.
Shubham Ranjane's death charge:
Shubham Ranjane provided the late-innings fireworks, smashing an unbeaten 48 off 24 balls. His assault ensured the USA posted 196/6, a total the Netherlands had never successfully chased in a T20 World Cup.
Harmeet’s 4-21 of spin
The Netherlands' pursuit of 197 never really gained momentum. The USA's spin bowlers took advantage of a pitch that provided turn and grip for those who were patient.
Harmeet's magic: Harmeet Singh (4/21) ran through the heart of the Dutch order. He Varied his pace from 80-89kph, rattling Scott Edwards' stumps and trapping the veteran Roelof van der Merwe lbw.
Van Schalkwyk’s streak: South African-born pacer Shadley van Schalkwyk continued his torrid form, picking up 3/21. He now leads the T20 World Cup wicket-taking charts with 11 wickets in just three games.
Collapse: The Netherlands were bundled out for 103 in 15.5 overs, losing their final 5 wickets for just 28 runs as the asking rate spiraled beyond control.
