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PAK vs USA 12th T20 WC 2026 Highlights: Pakistan has shown why they are one of the favorites to win the T20 World Cup 2026. The men in green delivered a commanding performance as they defeated the United States by 32 runs in a group-stage clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Babar Azam and Sahibzada Farhan were the stars of the show as they together helped Pakistan to post a competitive 190/9 before restricting the USA to 158/8 in 20 overs.
The victory strengthens Pakistan’s position in the group standings and has boosted their confidence in a big contest against India on February 15th.
Pakistan’s Batting: Farhan and Babar Lay the Foundation
But the good news for Pakistan is that Babar Azam is back in form. The superstar Babar Azam complemented S Farhan with a composed 46 off 32 deliveries. The experienced batter anchored the innings, and he ensured stability during the middle overs. Babar Azam coming in form is excellent news for Pakistan as they will battle India on February 15th, 2025.
Saim Ayub chipped in with 19 runs in 17 deliveries, but it was Shadab Khan who added a quickfire 30 off just 12 balls late in the innings to accelerate the scoring. Pakistan eventually finished at 190/9 in their 20 overs of the first inning. And the total proved to be very challenging for the USA.
For the United States, Shadley van Schalkwy was the superstar, as he was the pick of the bowlers with four wickets, and he kept Pakistan from crossing the 200-run mark.
USA’s Chase in Second Inning: Promising Start but Middle-Order Collapse
In the second innings, the USA started positively, as they had a steady opening partnership. Shayan Jahangir was the star of the innings, and he provided an impressive 49 off 34 balls. Saiteja Ranjane also played an aggressive knock of 51 off 30 deliveries to keep the chase alive.
Milind Kumar contributed 29 runs. However, the required run rate kept climbing, and this put extra pressure on the lower order.
The USA eventually managed 158/8 in 20 overs, and they together fell short by 32 runs despite a spirited fight.
Pakistan Bowlers Seal the Win
Pakistan’s bowling attack was very smooth, and they played a decisive role in defending the total. Usman Tariq was the standout performer as he claimed three crucial wickets and broke the USA’s rhythm in the death overs.
Shadab Khan was also phenomenal as he picked up two wickets with his disciplined spell. On the other hand, Mohammad Nawaz and Abrar Ahmed also came in handy as they both got one wicket each. Shaheen Afridi also made important breakthroughs at key moments.
The bowlers collectively made sure that the USA never fully recovered after losing momentum in the middle overs.
Key Moments of the Match
The turning point of the match came when Pakistan struck twice in quick succession during USA’s chase. The set batters were removed and triggered a collapse. Usman Tariq’s late breakthroughs did the test and sealed the contest.
Earlier, the partnership between Sahibzada Farhan and Babar Azam was needed to set the stage for Pakistan. With that being said, Pakistan looks ready for the big clash against India onÂ
