In a Group A match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, between the United States of America (USA) and Pakistan at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas on Thursday (June 6), Steven Taylor grabbed a sensational one-handed catch to dismiss Mohammad Rizwan.
Steven Taylor’s stellar catch
USA won the toss and opted to bat, setting the stage for a competitive match. Pakistan’s opening pair, Rizwan and skipper Babar Azam, aimed to provide a strong start. Rizwan displayed his intent early by smashing the third ball of the match for a six. However, his aggressive approach was short-lived.
In the third over, bowled by Saurabh Netravalkar, Rizwan faced a brilliant delivery that squared him up. The ball’s slight away movement took the edge of Rizwan’s bat, and it flew low towards Taylor at slip. Taylor, showcasing exceptional reflexes and athleticism, dived to his right and plucked the ball out of the air with one hand. This incredible catch sent Rizwan back to the pavilion after scoring just nine runs off eight balls.
Also READ: USA vs PAK: Here’s why Imad Wasim not playing today’s match | T20 World Cup 2024
Here’s the video:
What a grab at slip! 👏
Great reactions from the USA's Steven Taylor to get Pakistan opener Rizwan early doors.#BBCCricket #USAvPAK #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/XjWpNKwI4N
— Test Match Special (@bbctms) June 6, 2024
Pakistan’s struggle in powerplay
Following Rizwan’s dismissal, Usman Khan came in but soon fell to Nosthush Kenjige, leaving Pakistan in a precarious position. Fakhar Zaman tried to inject some momentum into the innings with a brisk cameo, but he too was dismissed, caught by Taylor off Ali Khan‘s bowling. After that Babar opted for a cautious approach, managing only a few runs without hitting any boundaries. His partner, Shadab Khan, also struggled to accelerate the scoring. By the end of the powerplay, Pakistan’s score stood at a modest 30/3, highlighting the USA bowlers’ dominance and the fielders’ sharpness.