of United States of America secured a 20-run victory over Canada in the 5th T20I of the Netherlands Tri-Series T20I 2024 at Sportpark Duivesteijn, Voorburg. Led by a commander half a century from Places in MukkamaUSA posted a competitive total of 168/6 in their 20 overs and successfully defended the target, restricting Canada to 148/7.
Solid US batting performance
After winning the toss and electing to bat, USA got off to a steady start 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 a six, laid the foundation for a solid total.
Contributions from Harmeet Singh (24 decrease 15) and Shadley of Schalkwyk (15 off 7) further bolstered the USA ranks in the death overs, helping them reach 168/6. Canada’s bowling attack without Saad Zafar stand out with the numbers 3/25, while Dillon Heyliger took two wickets but proved expensive, conceding 50 runs in his four overs.
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Canada’s War in Pursuit
In response, Canada’s top order faltered early, with Aaron Johnson falling in love and Kanwarpal Tathgur managing just 3 runs off 8 balls. Despite a shaky start, Dilpreet Bajwa led the opposition with a solid 56 off 41 balls, hitting six boundaries and two sixes. Shreyas Movva also contributed 37 of 30, but Canada struggled to build momentum.
With the required run rate rising, Canada needed quick runs, but disciplined USA bowling led by Nosthush Kenjige (2/22) and Shadley of Schalkwyk (2/35), kept them under control. Aaron Jones played a crucial role with the ball, taking two important wickets for just 8 runs in his two overs, suffocating Canada’s lower order and sealing the win for the USA.
For his match-winning half-century, Mukkamalla was named Man of the Match. His vital runs ensured the USA posted a competitive total and set the stage for their successful defence.
