The T20 World Cup 2024 match between the USA and Pakistan turned into a nail-biting encounter, culminating in a Super Over to determine the winner in Texas on Thursday. Pakistan, slated to play India next, suffered a stunning defeat at the hands of the USA, a result that sent ripples through the cricketing world.
This match not only captivated American fans but also caught the attention of India’s head coach, Rahul Dravid. A viral picture showed Dravid in the New York Subway, engrossed in checking the scores of the thrilling USA vs Pakistan game, indicating his deep interest in the dramatic events of the match.
At the Grand Prairie Stadium, history was made under the leadership of Monank Patel, with the USA’s pace attack led by Saurabh Netravalkar securing a remarkable victory over Pakistan, one of the tournament favourites. Netravalkar, a 32-year-old left-arm fast bowler, delivered an exceptional performance, maintaining a disciplined line and length that troubled Pakistan’s batsmen throughout his four-over spell, yielding figures of 2/18.
His heroics extended into the Super Over, where he defended 18 runs against the aggressive pairing of Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed, sealing the USA’s first T20I win over Pakistan. Netravalkar’s performance turned him into a social media sensation, drawing comparisons to Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar’s character in the film “Patiala House.”
USA registered a thrilling win
Rahul Dravid following the Super Over of Pakistan vs USA on Espn Cricinfo. [📸: Vishal Misra] pic.twitter.com/eanrXe6my6
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) June 6, 2024
His every delivery in the Super Over seemed to unfold alternate realities, capturing the imagination of fans and leading the USA to a historic victory. This win marked a significant milestone for Netravalkar, who had once played for India’s U-19 team in the World Cup fourteen years earlier.
His journey, from representing India in his youth to breaking Pakistan’s hearts in a global tournament, epitomizes a fairytale narrative.
Netravalkar’s rise to prominence began in the United States, a country on the verge of making its mark in international cricket. His journey reflects the possibilities and dreams that cricket can inspire, with his performance against Pakistan showcasing his talent and determination.
The USA’s victory, guided by his spellbinding bowling, has not only carved a place for him in cricket history but also highlighted the potential of emerging cricket nations on the world stage.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.