India launched their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 title defence with a 29-run victory over the United States in a Group A encounter at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday.
India posted 161 for 9 after being invited to bat first, recovering from a precarious position through a determined innings by captain Suryakumar Yadav. The United States replied with 132 for 8 in their 20 overs, unable to overcome disciplined bowling from the Indian attack despite some resistance in the middle order.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, India slumped early in their innings, losing wickets at regular intervals on a surface that offered grip and variable bounce. Top and middle-order contributions remained limited until Suryakumar Yadav stepped in to steady the innings. The captain remained unbeaten on 84 off 49 balls, featuring 10 fours and four sixes, accelerating particularly in the later stages to lift the total to a competitive mark. He was dropped on 15 during the 10th over, a moment that proved costly for the United States as he added significantly thereafter.
The Indian bowlers then delivered a controlled performance to defend the score. Pacers Mohammad Siraj claimed three wickets for 29 runs in his four overs, including key breakthroughs and a final-over dismissal. Arshdeep Singh took two for 18, while left-arm spinner Axar Patel picked up two for 24. The attack maintained pressure throughout, restricting the United States to well below the target despite efforts from their batters.
In the chase, the United States showed fight but could not build substantial partnerships against experienced opposition. Milind Kumar scored 34, Shubham Ranjane made 37, and Suraj Krishnamurthi contributed 37, providing some momentum in phases. However, regular wickets prevented any serious threat to India’s total, with the home side’s bowlers exploiting conditions effectively to seal the win.
The match marked the opening fixture for both teams in the tournament. India’s victory provides a solid start to their campaign as defending champions, while the United States demonstrated competitiveness against a higher-ranked side. Suryakumar Yadav was named player of the match for his match-defining knock.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
Global Affairs Desk at The Chenab Times covers international developments, global diplomacy, and foreign policy issues through fact-based reporting, explainers, and analytical pieces. The desk focuses on major geopolitical events, diplomatic engagements, and international trends, with an emphasis on verified information, multiple perspectives, and contextual understanding of global affairs.
