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The United States of America secured a 20-run victory over Canada in the 5th T20I of the Netherlands T20I Tri-Series 2024 at Sportpark Duivesteijn, Voorburg. Led by a commanding half-century from Saiteja Mukkamalla, USA posted a competitive total of 168/6 in their 20 overs and successfully defended the target, limiting Canada to 148/7.
USA’s solid batting performance
After winning the toss and electing to bat, USA got off to a steady start with Monank Patel contributing 16 runs off 18 balls, including four boundaries. However, it was Mukkamalla’s explosive innings of 52 runs off just 27 balls that anchored the American innings. Mukkamalla’s aggressive knock, which featured eight fours and one six, set the foundation for a solid total.
Contributions from Harmeet Singh (24 off 15) and Shadley van Schalkwyk (15 off 7) further bolstered the USA’s innings in the death overs, helping them reach 168/6. Canada’s bowling attack saw Saad Zafar stand out with figures of 3/25, while Dillon Heyliger chipped in with two wickets but proved expensive, conceding 50 runs in his four overs.
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Canada’s struggle in the chase
In response, Canada’s top order faltered early on, with Aaron Johnson falling for a duck and Kanwarpal Tathgur managing only 3 runs off 8 balls. Despite the shaky start, Dilpreet Bajwa led the resistance with a solid 56 off 41 balls, striking six boundaries and two sixes. Shreyas Movva also contributed 37 off 30, but Canada struggled to build momentum.
With the required run rate climbing, Canada needed quick runs, but USA’s disciplined bowling, led by Nosthush Kenjige (2/22) and Shadley van Schalkwyk (2/35), kept them in check. Aaron Jones played a crucial role with the ball, picking up two important wickets for just 8 runs in his two overs, stifling Canada’s lower order and sealing the victory for the USA.
For his match-winning half-century, Mukkamalla was named Player of the Match. His vital innings ensured that USA posted a competitive total and set the platform for their successful defense.
