(ICC Cricket)
The USA, as tournament co-hosts, secured a spot in the T20 World Cup knockout stages at the expense of Pakistan after their final group match against Ireland was abandoned due to heavy rain in Lauderdale, Florida.
In their inaugural T20 World Cup appearance, the USA made headlines by defeating Pakistan in a thrilling super over earlier in the tournament. This victory not only showcased their competitive spirit but also provided a significant boost to cricket in the region, especially with the sport slated to return to the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.
Elsewhere in Kingstown, South Africa clinched a dramatic last-ball win over Nepal. Quinton de Kock and Heinrich Klaasen combined to run out Gulsan Jha off the final delivery, securing victory by a solitary run and maintaining their flawless record in the tournament.
Facing South Africa’s total of 115 for seven, Nepal needed eight runs in the final over. Jha managed a crucial boundary over cover, leaving them requiring two runs off the last ball for a super over or one run to tie. However, de Kock’s throw deflected off Jha, allowing Klaasen to execute a direct hit at the bowler’s end.
Meanwhile, New Zealand, already eliminated after losses to Afghanistan and the West Indies, capitalized on conditions reminiscent of the historic Carisbrook ground in Dunedin rather than the typical Caribbean venue. They comprehensively defeated Uganda by nine wickets at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad. New Zealand’s bowlers exploited the swinging, cutting, and spinning conditions effectively, dismissing Uganda for just 40 runs. This total was marginally higher than Uganda’s joint-lowest score in T20 World Cup history, achieved against the West Indies in Georgetown.
Despite their convincing win, New Zealand’s tournament disappointment persisted, and they will return home following their final group match against Papua New Guinea on Monday, regardless of the result.
