Upset as USA beats Pakistan in T20 World cup opener

The opening match of the T20 World Cup cricket tournament yielded a shocking result, as Pakistan, the higher-ranked team expected to contend for the title, was defeated by the United States, the host nation, in a closely-fought match at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas.

Opting to field first after winning the pre-match coin toss, US captain Monank Patel made a surprising decision that initially seemed misguided. Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan hit an early six, but was soon dismissed by a spectacular catch from Steven Taylor, foreshadowing Pakistan's batting struggles.

Pakistan's vaunted batting lineup failed to live up to billing, as key batsmen like Babar Azam were dismissed cheaply and the team struggled to score runs and hit boundaries. Under pressure from an impressive US bowling attack led by Nosthush Kenjige, Pakistan limped to a subpar total of just 130 runs.

In reply, the US started slowly but remained steady under pressure. Openers Sushant Singh and Xavier Marshall put together a crucial partnership. Lacking bite on a flat pitch, Pakistan's usually potent pace bowling failed to trouble the US batsmen.

Though they lost some late wickets, the US held their nerve. Needing just a few runs in the final over, the US endured some nervous moments but ultimately scored the winning runs with two balls remaining, sparking celebrations from the home crowd.

Several factors contributed to Pakistan's unexpected loss. Their inability to score freely, combined with the US bowlers' disciplined performance, proved decisive. Pakistan's fielding, typically a strength, was also off its game, allowing easy runs.

This historic win will boost the US's confidence and serve notice to other teams. They showed skill, poise, and determination to pull off the upset.

Pakistan must learn from their mistakes and regroup quickly. Though the tournament is still open and they remain experienced contenders, this match is a reminder that in the unpredictable T20 format, any team is capable of winning on any given day