Team USA has made a remarkable start in the 2024 T20 World Cup, securing victories in their first two matches. With pre-tournament buzz suggesting they were prepared to challenge any opposition, the team has delivered on those expectations. However, their next test is against the formidable Indian side led by Rohit Sharma. Several Indian-born players in the USA team could pose significant threats to their former countrymen.
India-born USA players to watch out for
1. Monank Patel
ICC
Monank Patel, USA’s captain, born on May 1, 1993, in Anand, Gujarat, led by example in the powerplay against Pakistan. His brilliant tactics restricted Pakistan to 159-7, and he followed up with a 38-ball fifty, ensuring his team stayed ahead. Patel’s calm demeanor and leadership are pivotal, and India’s bowlers, including Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah, will need to dismiss him early to avoid trouble.
2. Saurabh Netravalkar
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Saurabh Netravalkar, a key player against Pakistan, hails from Mumbai. His exceptional bowling figures of 2 for 18 in four overs played a significant role in USA’s victory. Netravalkar’s ability to move the ball and find the right length will be crucial against Indian openers, particularly Rohit Sharma, who has struggled against left-arm pacers.
3. Harmeet Singh
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Harmeet Singh, a left-arm spinner, has roots in the Mumbai dressing room, sharing space with stars like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Shivam Dube. A standout performer in India’s 2012 Under-19 World Cup-winning team, Harmeet now plays a crucial role for the USA. His left-arm spin is effective throughout the innings, and he could trouble Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the powerplay. Harmeet is also a capable batsman, boasting a strike rate of 202 in T20 internationals, making him a key player against India’s middle-order spinners.
Other USA players expected to make a mark
Aaron Jones -PTI/AP
Aaron Jones, born in Queens, New York, and raised in Barbados, is a formidable opener for the USA. His unbeaten 94 off 40 balls against Canada showcased his aggressive batting style. Jones, with experience from playing alongside Caribbean stars, poses a significant threat to India’s bowling attack. Andries Gous, a South African-born wicketkeeper-batter, brings significant experience to the USA team. His 65-run performance against Canada demonstrated his ability to anchor innings. Gous’s experience in various T20 leagues makes him a vital player against India. Corey Anderson, a former New Zealand international, adds explosive potential to the USA team. Known for his hard-hitting batting and medium-pace bowling, Anderson’s familiarity with Indian players and his high-stakes match experience make him a player to watch.
USA cricketers on ties with Indian star players
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Speaking exclusively to Star Sports, USA cricketers Saurabh Netravalkar, Harmeet Singh, Monank Patel, and Corey Anderson shared their connections and excitement about facing Indian players. Netravalkar reminisced about his friendship with Suryakumar Yadav, saying, “He was always special, scoring double hundreds and stuff in under-15 and under-17 matches.” Harmeet Singh expressed admiration for his schoolmate Rohit Sharma, noting, “Growing up, I used to look up to Rohit Sharma.” Monank Patel spoke about his shared hometown with Axar Patel, stating, “Axar comes from the same town where I am from.” Corey Anderson reflected on Jasprit Bumrah’s rise, mentioning, “It is cool to see that progress throughout because you see the things they talk about early in their careers, and how they gain experience.”
As Team USA prepares to face India, these Indian-born players could play a decisive role in what promises to be an exciting encounter.
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