What happened when Pakistan last played against the USA?

The last time Pakistan faced the United States of America, the cricketing world witnessed one of the biggest upsets in T20 World Cup history. Pakistan suffered a shock defeat against the co-hosts USA during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 in a group-stage encounter held at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas.

After winning the toss, the USA opted to bowl first in what was their maiden appearance at the tournament. Pakistan posted a competitive total of 159/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Captain Babar Azam anchored the innings with a cautious 44 off 43 balls, while Shadab Khan provided momentum with a brisk 40 off 25 deliveries.

Shaheen Afridi added late fireworks, remaining unbeaten on 23 off 16 balls to push Pakistan’s total to a fighting score. For the USA, Nosthush Kenjige was the standout bowler, claiming 3/30. Saurabh Netravalkar chipped in with 2/18, while Ali Khan and Jasdeep Singh took one wicket each.

In reply, the USA produced a remarkable batting effort, matching Pakistan’s total of 159/3 at the end of their 20 overs to force a Super Over. Captain Monank Patel led from the front with a composed 50 off 38 balls, while Andries Gous (35 off 26) and Aaron Jones (36 off 26) played crucial supporting roles. Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to apply pressure, with Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf managing one wicket apiece.

The match moved into a dramatic Super Over, where the USA batted first. Aaron Jones and Harmeet Singh came out to face Mohammad Amir and managed to score 18/1 in six balls. Jones began aggressively, striking a boundary off the first delivery, while several wides bowled by Amir added to Pakistan’s woes.

Pakistan were chasing 19 for victory but fell short, managing only 13/1 in their Super Over. Iftikhar Ahmed struck a boundary but was dismissed on the third ball. Shadab Khan followed with a four, but the target remained out of reach as Saurabh Netravalkar held his nerve to seal a historic five-run victory for the USA.

The defeat marked the first time Pakistan lost to a non-Full Member nation in T20Is. With memories of that upset still fresh, Pakistan and the USA are set to meet again in Group A of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with their clash scheduled for February 10 at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo.