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The USA caused one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history as they beat 2022 runners-up Pakistan by 5 runs in a super Over. In what was a topsy-turvy encounter, the American for the large part had the better of this game.

Babar Azam’s Pakistan who came off a 2-0 series defeat to England coming into the tournament with the greatest respect to Manank Patel’s American side, would have fancied their chances.

The 2022 runners-up, usually tend to fare better when they put the opposition into bat, but the USA captain put the tourists in and the move was inspired. Mohammed Rizwan (9), Usman Khan (3) and Fakhar Zaman (11) all fell cheaply to leave Pakistan reeling.

Captain Babar (44) and vice-captain of Babar Azam’s previous Era (40), put on a crucial stand to stem the tide, but there wasn’t much stopping the charging American attack.

To the man, the in blue were disciplined and rarely erred from their line and length. In the last game against Canada, I noticed how well-drilled they were in the field, the same can be said in this game too.

Australian coach Stuart Law’s methods are clearly working. Pakistan being the premier team that they were despite being poor and second best for large parts of this game, clawed their way back into the game and actually should have won it in the normal alloted overs.

Poor bowling from Haris Rauf however, allowed the USA a lifeline and the chance to cause an all-mighty upset with a Super Over win. Credit must go to Captain Patel (50) Andries Gous (35) and Aaron Jones (35) for helping the minnows get level with the target.

Batting first in the Super Over, America thanks to some generous fielding from Pakistan were able to get to 18-0. Pakistan who have won just once in a Super Over were always up against and lost Iftikhar Ahmed in reply.
Shadab, who was next in, did try and push Pakistan close to the target and to get them home, but the 2009 winners fell short of their target, sending the home US crowd into raptures.

A great shock, which might set the standard for the tournament. Pakistan will hope they can get their first campaign win against India. No issues there then!

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