Pakistan surge ahead in T20 World Cup as USA succumbs to Farhan’s fire and Tariq’s spin
Pakistan surge ahead in T20 World Cup as USA succumbs to Farhan’s fire and Tariq’s spin
By Nawaz Gohar ; Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 gained formidable momentum on Tuesday as the Men in Green orchestrated a clinical 32-run victory over the United States at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Ground. A masterclass in power-hitting by Sahibzada Farhan, coupled with a surgical bowling display led by the rising Usman Tariq, ensured Pakistan secured their second consecutive win of the tournament.
The foundation of the victory was laid in the first innings after USA captain Monank Patel’s decision to field backfired against a relentless Pakistani top order. Openers Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub provided a high-octane start, bludgeoning 54 runs in the opening five overs. While Ayub (19) and skipper Salman Ali Agha (1) fell in quick succession, the momentum never wavered.
The highlight of the innings was an exquisite 81-run partnership for the third wicket between the seasoned Babar Azam and a rampaging Sahibzada Farhan. Babar’s calculated 46 off 32 balls provided the perfect foil for Farhan, who emerged as the protagonist of the day.
Farhan’s blistering 73 off just 41 deliveries, featuring six boundaries and five massive sixes, left the American bowlers searching for answers. A late-order cameo by Shadab Khan, who smashed 30 off 12 balls, propelled Pakistan to a daunting 190/9. Despite the carnage, USA’s Shadley van Schalkwyk remained the standout performer with the ball, claiming a career-best 4/25.
Chasing 191, the USA began their pursuit with admirable intent. Openers Andries Gous and Shayan Jahangir played with freedom, stitching together a 42-run stand. However, the introduction of spin turned the tide. Mohammad نواز drew first blood, after which Shadab Khan (2/26) dismantled the middle order, dismissing both Captain Monank Patel and the dangerous Jahangir, who fell one run short of a half-century.
The USA briefly threatened a comeback through a 54-run resistance between Shubham Ranjane (51) and Milind Kumar (29). Enter Usman Tariq: the young bowling sensation delivered a knockout blow by breaking the partnership and triggering a lower-order collapse.
Tariq’s mesmerizing spell of 3/27 in four overs effectively ended the American challenge. Supporting acts from Shaheen Shah Afridi and Abrar Ahmed ensured the USA remained restricted to 158/8, falling well short of the target.
