T20 WC: Chase shines as WI beat PNG by 5 wkts

 Sun, 02 June 2024
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23:30

Chase shines as WI beat PNG by 5 wkts

WI 137-5 (19 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

The Windies' comeback is complete!

Morea returns to the attack, but he has no answer for the rampaging Russell. The big man muscles the ball for a couple, followed by a controlled single. The pressure is all on PNG now! Chase, the hero of the innings, refuses to give an inch. He slams consecutive boundaries over the ropes, sending the Windies crowd into a frenzy! The equation shrinks to a mere 2 runs needed from 8 deliveries. Chase keeps the momentum going with another single, tying the scores!

Russell takes center stage as he hammers the winning runs! 

The Windies dugout erupts in celebration! They have pulled off a remarkable comeback. 

The Windies win by 5 wickets with 1 over to spare! 

Chasing down a modest total seemed straightforward initially, but PNG's bowlers had the Windies on the ropes at one stage. However, a sensational knock from Chase ensured a thrilling victory for the Windies!

23:23

Chase, Russell blitz put WI on top

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WI 124-5 (18 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

The Windies' fightback takes a thrilling turn!

Andre Russell strides out to the crease, a sense of hope crackling in the air. Chase remains calm, defending the first delivery before pushing a single towards cover. Russell follows suit, carefully defending the next two balls. But the tension doesn't waver! He connects with the next, driving it for a crucial couple. The crowd erupts as Chase explodes again! He launches a towering six over the ropes, sending shivers down the PNG spines! 

He keeps the momentum going with a controlled single, taking the Windies to 106-5 after 17 overs. They still need 31 runs, but with 18 balls remaining, a glimmer of victory appears.

Vala returns for another over, but Chase continues his onslaught! He welcomes the bowler with a scorching boundary, raising the Windies' hopes even further. He adds another single, keeping the pressure on. Russell joins the party, driving the ball towards long-on for a couple before sneaking in a quick single. The Windies inch closer with every run! And Chase seals the over with another monstrous six! 

The Windies faithful roar their approval as Chase follows it up with a powerful boundary, bringing the equation down to a manageable 13 runs needed from 12 deliveries! 
23:16

Can Windies chase 40 in 24 balls?

WI 97-5 (16 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

The Windies fightback gains momentum! 

Chase keeps his cool, pushing a single towards long-on. 

Rutherford, the new batsman, cautiously defends the next two deliveries before getting off the mark with a single. The tension intensifies as Chase explodes, launching a massive six over the ropes!

The Windies crowd roars in delight! He follows it up with another controlled single, taking the Windies to 94/4 after 15 overs. They need 43 runs with just 30 balls remaining.

But the drama continues! Vala returns to the attack, and this time, he finds the edge! 

Rutherford mistimes a shot, and Doriga behind the stumps pulls off a stunning catch! The Windies lose their fifth wicket as Rutherford departs for a brief 2 off 7 balls. The over ends with 3 runs and a wicket, leaving the Windies at 97-5. 

They still need 40 runs, but with only 24 balls remaining, the task becomes even tougher. Can they snatch victory from the jaws of defeat?


23:10

WI lose Powell; 4 down

WI 85-4 (14 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

Tension hangs heavy as Kariko continues his spell. Chase defends the first three deliveries with grit, determined to steady the Windies' chase. He then breaks free, driving a single towards cover. Powell joins the fight, slapping the ball for a single down the leg side. The Windies inch closer, but the pressure is immense. Kariko ends the over with a dot ball, leaving them at 77/3 after 13 overs. They need 60 runs from a challenging 42 balls.

Soper replaces Kariko, and Powell unleashes his fury! He cracks a boundary, raising the hopes of the Windies crowd. He follows it up with a powerful shot towards midwicket, sprinting for a risky two. The Windies manage to rotate the strike with a single each. But wait! Soper finds the edge! Powell attempts a booming drive, but Doriga snatches a brilliant catch behind the stumps! The Umpire raises his finger but Powell reviews, but the replays confirm the dismissal. 

Powell departs for a quickfire 15 off 14 balls. 

23:03

Can WI maintain the momentum?

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WI 75-3 (12 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

Amini returns to the attack, but Chase breaks free! He jabs one for a single, getting off the mark and bringing some much-needed stability to the Windies' chase. Powell follows suit, mirroring Chase's single. The pressure is palpable, but Chase keeps ticking the scoreboard with another single. 

Two more quick singles cap off the over, with the Windies inching closer at 68-3 after 11 overs.

Vala continues his spell, and Chase picks off another single. But Powell explodes! He misses a delivery, but the next one finds the sweet spot, rocketing away for a boundary! The Windies crowd erupts! Powell isn't done yet, pushing another single before Chase joins the party with a single of his own. 

Vala manages to end the over with a dot ball, but the Windies have added 7 crucial runs. They now stand at 75-3 after 12 overs.

22:53

King departs! Windies in a spot of bother

WI 63-3 (10 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

The Windies' chase stutters! 

Vala throws himself into the attack, and his probing deliveries seem to trouble King. The pressure mounts, and it tells! Vala finds the breakthrough, dismissing King for 34 off 29 balls. Siaka pouched a straightforward catch at deep midwicket, leaving the Windies in a precarious position. 

WI skipper Rovman Powell is the new batter, he defends the last off the over. After 10 overs WI are 63-3.

They now require 74 runs with just 60 balls remaining. 
22:48

Pooran falls! Ura takes a sensational catch

WI 63-2 (9 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

Kariko continues his spell, and it pays off! Pooran, who was just starting to unleash his power, skies the ball towards wide long-on. 

Ura makes a fantastic leaping grab well inside the boundary, a good 10-15 yards from the rope, to dismiss the dangerous batsman! Pooran falls for 27 off 27 balls. 

Roston Chase strides out to the crease, the pressure mounting. A nervous leg-bye is awarded, followed by two watchful defenses from King. He manages to sneak a single off the last ball. 

The Windies inch forward but lose a crucial wicket. They're now at 63-2 after 9 overs, needing 74 runs from the remaining 66 deliveries. 
22:44

Windies progress steadily after early burst

WI 61-1 (8 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

John Kariko enters the bowling fray. King muscles the ball for a long-on single, while Pooran plays it cautiously, defending the next three deliveries. The tension builds as Soper returns to the attack. King shows his patience, defending the first two balls before flicking the next for a couple. Pooran joins the party with a single of his own, but Soper manages to end the over with a dot ball. 

The Windies inch closer to their target, reaching 61-1 after 8 overs. 
Can they maintain this controlled approach and seal the victory?

22:37

Pooran explodes! WI eye easy win after powerplay

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WI 52-1 (6 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

Sese Bau, the hero of the PNG innings, enters the bowling attack! 

Pooran explodes, launching a monstrous six over the ropes! He's not done yet, smashing another boundary to the delight of the Windies crowd! The momentum shifts dramatically as Pooran blasts another six! 

He calms things down with a single, but the message is clear - he's here to chase! 

King joins the party with a single of his own, and the Windies take a whopping 18 runs off the powerplay over! They're now at a comfortable 52-1 after 6 overs, needing just 85 runs from the remaining 84 deliveries. 

Can PNG find a way to claw their way back into the match?
22:34

King provides spark after early setback

WI 34-1 (5 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

Nao continues to test the Windies batters. Pooran misses two deliveries, frustration starting to show. But he manages to scamper through for a single with a well-placed tip and run. King, on the other hand, times the ball beautifully, smashing back-to-back boundaries off Nao! 

The Windies take 9 runs from the over, ending it at 27/1.

Chad Soper replaces Nao. He starts with a tight line and length, forcing two dot balls. Pooran finally connects, pushing a single and rotating the strike. King keeps the momentum going, launching another boundary over the ropes! 

The Windies add 7 runs in Soper's over, bringing their score to 34/1 after 5 overs. King is proving to be the aggressor, while Pooran seeks his rhythm early on.
22:34

Windies begin their chase


WI 18-1 (3 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

It's a yorker from Nao, and Pooran contemplates a run, but King sends him back. Swing and a miss! An excellent wicket maiden over from Nao!

After 2 overs, WI are 8-1.

Morea continues, and King finds the gap, slamming a boundary. The next delivery is straighter, swinging in, and King defends it. But he follows up with another boundary. A swing again gets bat to it, resulting in a legbye. Pooran leaves it alone. A single ends the over.

Ten runs came off it. After 3 overs, WI are 18-1.
22:17

Pooran gets lifeline as rain halts play

WI 8-1 (1.4 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

Nicholas Pooran is the new batter. He lets the first ball slide by, sizing up the PNG attack. Alei Nao unleashes a delivery that finds Pooran plumb in front, but the bowler hesitates! 

Replays erupt on the screen, revealing a ball pitching right on the stumps! A collective gasp ripples through the crowd. PNG have missed a golden opportunity! However, the heavens seem to be taking pity, as rain starts to lash down. 

At the moment, the covers are on. However, there shouldn't be a significant delay.

Brandon King and Nicholas Pooran emerge from the pavilion after the brief 20-minute delay.

21:55

Alei Nao strikes; WI lose 1st wicket

WI 8-1 (1.1 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

Johnson Charles prepares to face his first ball as Alei Nao comes charging in from the other end. There's a big appeal... Given! Charles decides to review it, and we're waiting for UltraEdge. No bat detected. It's umpire's call, and Charles has to go.
21:51

WI off to a good start

WI 8-0 (1 Ovs) vs PNG 136-8 | Scorecard

As the PNG team takes the field, Brandon King and Johnson Charles walk to the middle. Left-arm seamer Kabua Morea is entrusted with the responsibility of opening the bowling. 

King starts cautiously, pushing one to extra cover for no run, then defends the next delivery. He attempts to step out but misses. Finally, he gets off the mark with a boundary! And another boundary follows to end the over! Eight runs came off the first over. 

The West Indies are 8-0, needing 129 runs from 114 balls to win.

21:34

PNG set 137-run target for Windies

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PNG 136-8 (20 Ovs) vs WI | Scorecard

Joseph takes the final over with PNG needing a big push. Doriga steps up, smashing him for back-to-back boundaries! 

The Windies are rattled! But wait... Joseph nails the direct hit at the non-striker's end, and Alei Nao departs for a golden duck! 

Kabua Morea strides out, but his first ball is a nervous single. Doriga follows suit, a hint of frustration on his face. Morea gets another single, but the drama isn't over! 

Joseph oversteps, gifting PNG a crucial no-ball and two extra runs. 14 runs come off the final over, leaving PNG with a fighting total of 136-8! 

Can they defend this against the Windies' batting might?
21:24

Russell strikes; PNG 7 down

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PNG 122-7 (19 Ovs) vs WI | Scorecard

Shepherd is brought back into the attack. Soper starts with a couple, bringing up the 100 for PNG. Shepherd delivers an excellent yorker, and Soper manages to get a single. Then, a slower ball from Shepherd, but Doriga slams it away for four runs! Following that, a full toss is bowled, but Joseph manages to stop a sure boundary. Soper flicks towards deep for a single. Doriga pushes towards long on and manages to get two runs.

Fourteen runs came off the over, a good one for PNG. After 18 overs, PNG are 112-6.

In the penultimate over, Soper welcomes the bowler with a boundary and follows it up with a single. Doriga collects a couple of twos before being bowled by a yorker. Chad Soper departs for 10 off 9 balls.

Ten runs and a wicket came off the over. After 19 overs, PNG are 122-7.

21:15

Bau departs after scoring fifty; PNG 6 down

PNG 99-6 (17 Ovs) vs WI | Scorecard

Joseph returns to the attack, but begins with a wide. Doriga is beaten by the next delivery but manages to flick one towards the leg side for a single. Then, a slower ball from Joseph bamboozles Bau, crashing into the stumps. Bau departs for a well-made 50 off 43 balls, a cracking innings from the PNG veteran, but Joseph had his number there. The West Indies continue to maintain their grip on proceedings.

Chad Soper is the new batter. He defends the next two deliveries and manages to get a single off the last ball of the over.

Three runs and a wicket came off the over. After 17 overs, PNG are 99-6.
21:10

Bau's fifty puts PNG in strong position

PNG 96-5 (16 Ovs) vs WI | Scorecard

Russell returns to the attack, and Amini pulls for a single. Bau swings and misses at the next delivery but manages to send one towards backward point for a single. They exchange a single each. However, the partnership is broken as Amini edges one through to Pooran while attempting a cut shot. Amini departs for 12 off 14 balls, ending a steadying stand for PNG.

Four runs and a wicket came off the over. After 15 overs, PNG are 94-5. Kipling Doriga is the new batter.

Bau nudges the ball into the leg side, bringing up his fifty from 42 balls. Doriga defends most of the over, managing just a single off the last ball to get off the mark. Only 2 runs came off it. After 16 overs, PNG are 96-5.
21:04

Bau goes big! Boundaries boost PNG

PNG 90-4 (14 Ovs) vs WI | Scorecard

Motie continues his spell as Bau confidently sends the ball back to the bowler. Then, with a powerful stroke, Bau slams a boundary, cutting it towards the off-side. Not content with just that, he follows it up with a huge six, showcasing his aggressive intent. Keeping the momentum going, Bau adds four more runs to his tally with another boundary. The over concludes with a dot ball. 

Fourteen runs came off it. After 13 overs, PNG are 81-4.

Alzarri Joseph returns to the attack, and Amini fails to connect with the first delivery. He manages to flick one to point for a single. Bau swings and misses but then redeems himself by slamming a boundary over the keeper’s head. He follows it up with a single towards backward point. Three runs are added to the total to end the over. 

Nine runs came off it. After 14 overs, PNG are 90-4.
20:57

PNG rebuild; Motie, Shepherd restrict boundaries

PNG 67-4 (12 Ovs) vs WI | Scorecard

Motie continues his spell. Bau is beaten by a well-flighted delivery. He manages to jab one towards long off for a single. Amini defends the next ball, then plays towards point for another single. Bau cuts towards backward point, hustling for two quick singles. The over concludes with a single. Five runs came off it. After 11 overs, PNG are 62-4.

Shepherd returns to the attack. Bau steers one towards backward point but finds no run. He manages to sneak a single off the next delivery. A legbye is called, adding to the score. Two more singles follow to end the over. Five singles came off it. After 12 overs, PNG are 67-4.
20:49

Motie strikes; PNG 4 down

The Universe Boss Chris Gayle with the T20 World Cup trophy
The Universe Boss Chris Gayle with the T20 World Cup trophy
PNG 57-4 (10 Ovs) vs WI | Scorecard

Motie is brought into the attack. Bau steers through the covers for a single. Hiri cuts towards backward point but can't find a run. He sweeps through cover for a single, followed by another single from Bau. Hiri goes for the reverse, but it's pouched at slip! A simple catch for Powell as the West Indies continue to dominate. Hiri departs for 2 off 6 balls.

PNG star all-rounder Charles Amini is the new batter and gets off the mark with a couple. Five runs and a wicket came off the over. After 9 overs, PNG are 52-4.

Chase continues. Bau plays towards midwicket and scampers through for a couple, followed by a single. Amini pushes towards cover but won’t get any runs. He defends the next ball and then flicks towards square leg for a single. Bau also takes a single to end the over. Five runs came off it, and with that, drinks have been called. 

After 10 overs, PNG are 57-4.
20:40

Windies on top


PNG 47-3 (8  Ovs) vs WI | Scorecard

Hosein is back with a slip in place. Bau pushes the first ball back to the bowler, then slams a boundary. He punches towards the leg side for a single, and the over ends with a dot. Five runs came off it. After 7 overs, PNG are 39-3.

Chase continues, and Bau greets him with a boundary. He defends the next delivery, then cuts to point for a single. A wide down the leg side adds another run. Hiri gets off the mark with a single. Bau flicks towards the leg side for another single, and Hiri defends the last ball. Eight runs came off the over. After 8 overs, PNG are 47-3.
20:36

Windies restrict PNG to 34/3 after powerplay

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PNG 34-3 (6  Ovs) vs WI | Scorecard

Alzarri Joseph takes on the final powerplay over. Vala drives to cover but finds no run. He sends the next delivery back to the bowler. Then, Vala smashes through the covers for four runs! He defends the following ball but flicks through mid-off for another boundary. A short delivery is slapped, but Chase holds on! An instinctive grab from Chase, showcasing brilliant fielding, and PNG lose their third wicket of the powerplay. 

Vala departs for 21 off 22 balls. Eight runs and a wicket came off the over. After 6 overs, PNG are 34-3. 

The West Indies are on top at the end of the powerplay.


20:27

Double blow for PNG, but they fight on

PNG 26-2 (5 Ovs) vs WI | Scorecard

Andre Russell is brought into the attack. Bau is beaten by the first delivery. He then jabs towards mid-off but can't find a run, as Pooran does well to deny any singles. Bau sends the next ball straight back to the bowler. Finally, the first boundary of the match comes as a delivery strays down the leg side, followed by a wide. The over concludes with a dot ball. Five runs came off it. After 4 overs, PNG are 15-2.

Roston Chase is the new bowler, and Vala welcomes him with a six – the first maximum of the match. Vala blocks the next ball and then steers one to cover for a single. A swing and miss follows, and Pooran can't collect it, allowing PNG to steal 2 runs. Vala defends the next delivery. A wide down the leg side adds another run. The over concludes with a single. Eleven runs came off it. After 5 overs, PNG are 26-2.

20:17

NG lose two quick wickets

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PNG 10-2 (3 Ovs) vs WI | Scorecard

Hosein continues, unleashes a fiery delivery, and it finds its mark! 

Siaka is CLEAN BOWLED! He departs for a mere 1 run off 2 deliveries. The Windies are putting the squeeze on PNG's batting order!

Sese Bau, the new batter, cuts through square leg and gets off the mark with a single. Vala defends the next three balls but manages a couple off the last ball of the over. Three runs and a wicket came off it. After three overs, PNG are 10-2.

20:12

Shepherd strikes early; PNG lose 1st wkt

PNG 7-1 (2 Ovs) vs WI | Scorecard

Ura sends it down the ground for none. Ura gets the scoreboard ticking with a single off the second ball! Vala, however, shows good defensive technique, blocking out the rest of the over. Just a single conceded by the Windies bowler!

Romario Shepherd comes from the other end. Ura times the ball well, squeezing a single through the gap. Vala takes a swing but misses, the ball cutting through the covers. Russell gives chase, but it's in vain! Vala capitalises on the opportunity, picking up three runs. 

Ura attempts another shot, but this time he misjudges it. Shepherd's delivery finds the edge, flying towards Pooran who makes a clean catch! Ura departs for a brief knock of 2 runs off 5 balls.

Lega Siaka is the new batter, going down the leg wide called. Siaka is off the mark with a single. 6 runs and a wicket came off it after 2 overs PNG are 7-1.

20:04

WI win toss; opt to bowl vs PNG

The PNG anthem concludes, and now it's time for 'Rally Round the West Indies'! 

The Windies huddle tight, their energy palpable.

Assad Vala and Tony Ura, two seasoned PNG veterans, are out in the middle. Akeal Hosein will open the bowling, with a slip in place.

Can they withstand the early storm that the West Indies are sure to unleash?

19:45

Here are the Playing XIs

Here are the Playing XIs

Teams:

West Indies: Johnson Charles, Brandon King, Roston Chase, Nicholas Pooran(w), Rovman Powell(c), Andre Russell, Romario Shepherd, Sherfane Rutherford, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie

Papua New Guinea: Tony Ura, Assad Vala(c), Sese Bau, Lega Siaka, Hiri Hiri, Charles Amini, Kiplin Doriga(w), Alei Nao, Chad Soper, Kabua Morea, John Kariko
19:45

WI win toss; opt to bowl vs PNG

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The West Indies call the shots! They've won the toss and elected to field first.

Rovman Powell, the West Indies skipper, said, 'We are going to bowl first. It is a fresh wicket, and we hope to restrict them so our batters can chase it down. I am excited, and the team is excited to win a home World Cup. It is something we are looking forward to, and hopefully, we can deliver. We have two all-rounders and three spinners.'

PNG skipper Assad Vala commented, 'We have the right balance at the moment with a lot of all-rounders. The preparation has been very good; we have been here for over two weeks and are looking forward to the tournament.'


17:28

WI aims for solid start against PNG

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Hello and welcome to the coverage of the T20 World Cup match between West Indies and Papua New Guinea.

More than eight years after Carlos Brathwaite's four consecutive sixes at Eden Gardens secured the West Indies their second T20 World Cup title, the team is poised for redemption on home soil. 

Their campaign in the ninth edition of the tournament begins against Papua New Guinea in Georgetown on Sunday. 

It has been 2982 days since that unforgettable night in Kolkata, a moment the West Indies are eager to replicate, especially with the tournament being hosted at home. 

Former two-time T20 World Cup-winning captain Darren Sammy returns as coach. The Rovman Powell-led side has already showcased their intent with a dominant victory over Australia in a warm-up match. 

Nicolas Pooran will anchor the middle order, supported by explosive talents like Powell, Andre Russell, Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford, and Romario Shepherd. 

This formidable lineup makes the West Indies one of the strongest batting teams in the competition. Russell, fresh off a season that helped Kolkata Knight Riders clinch their third IPL title, has been in exceptional form. 

The West Indies aim to become the first team to win a T20 World Cup on home turf. 

They have replaced the injured Jason Holder with Obed McCoy, who was the leading wicket-taker during the West Indies A's recent tour of Nepal. 

Papua New Guinea, led by Assadollah Vala, is making their second T20 World Cup appearance, having secured their spot through the East Asia-Pacific regional final in July 2023.

Vala is joined by nine other players from their 2021 campaign, with Jack Gardner included in the squad this time. Leg-spinning all-rounder CJ Amini will serve as his deputy.
09:32

Jones slams 40-ball 94 as USA down Canada

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USA 197-3 (17.4 ovs) vs Canada 194-5 | Scorecard

Kaleem does well to give away three singles from his first five balls. But he spoils what would have been a good over, as he bowls a wide down the leg side which the wicketkeeper half stops to concede three wides.

Jones picks a single off the last ball to retain strike.

Jones looks in a rush as he takes Dutta to the cleaner in the 18th over. He reverse sweeps the first ball over thirdman for a boundary before he slog sweeps the next which the fielder at deep square leg ends up tipping over the ropes for a six while trying to take the catch.

Jones finishes off the match in grand style as he swings Dutta for a massive six over midwicket.

USA start off with a victory on their T20 World Cup debut as they outclass Canada by seven wickets.

Jones starred with the bat, smashing a sensational 94 from 40 balls, hitting 10 sixes and four boundaries.
09:22

USA set for easy win vs Canada


USA 174-3 (16 ovs) vs Canada 194-5 | Scorecard

Pacer Kaleem Sana is back into the attack. Jones gets a lifeline as he top edges trying to slog it over the leg side but the fielder at short thirdman puts down an easy chance.

The runs continue to flow. Jones makes room to hit the bowler through the off-side but gets the thick outside edge between the wicketkeeper and short thirdman for a four.

Three more singles as nine runs come from the 15th over.

Spinner Dutta, who went for 19 runs in his first over, is back into the attack.

He starts with a short ball which Jones cuts past point for a four and then takes one as he mistimes the heave.

Dutta brings Canada some relief with the wicket of Gous, who lofts it down the ground but holes out to the fielder at long-on.

Gous walks after a superb knock of 65 from 46 balls, hitting three sixes and seven fours. He put USA on course, adding 131 runs from 58 balls for the third wicket with Jones to revive the hosts after a difficult start.

Corey Anderson gets off the mark with a single.
09:12

Jones, Gous put USA on course for win


USA 159-2 (14 ovs) vs Canada 194-5 | Scorecard

Canada need a wicket or two to stop USA's stunning charge in the last few overs.

Pacer Jeremy Gordon comes back into the attack. He starts with a wide ball before Gous cuts the short wide delivery over the off-side for a six.

The next ball is down the leg side as Gous helps it fine for a four to bring up his fifty from 39 balls.

Gordon misses his line again as he bowls a wide down the leg side.

Canada have taken the review as they believe that the ball went off the edge. But there is nothing on the UltraEdge as the wide call stays and Canada end up losing a review.

A wicket against the run of play for Canada. Gous plays the pick up shot off Gordon but can't clear the ropes as he is caught on the boundary.

Just when Canada start to celebrate the umpire rules it a no-ball for overstepping.

Not only a lifeline for Gous, but he also gets the bonus of a free hit. Gous hits the pacer over the off-side who has overstepped again for another free hit.

Jones makes most of the free hit delivery, slamming it over midwicket for a six.

He bowls a wide before Jones lofts the fourth ball straight as the fielder at long-on who does extremely well to leap high and flick the ball inside the ropes to save the six.

Another length ball from Gordon and this time Gous launches it over long-on for a six.

The last ball goes off the outside half of the bat over short thirdman for a four.

33 runs from the Gordon has turned the game on its head with USA now needing run-a-ball from the last six overs.
09:00

Jones slams 22-ball fifty; USA on top


USA 126-2 (13 ovs) vs Canada 194-5 | Scorecard

Off-spinner Pargat Singh comes back into the attack. He starts with a half-tracker which Jones easily despatches over midwicket with a powerful pull shot for a six.

He tries the shot again but only for a single off the inside half.

Gous slams the third ball powerfully straight back past the bowler for a four followed by two singles.

The last ball is steered by Gous to thirdman for a single but a wild throw from the fielder results in an overthrow.

Gous and Jones have put on 64 from 34 balls to get USA back into the contest as the hosts go past the 100-run mark, in the 12th over.

Spinner Zafar is back into the attack. Jones continues his assault as he slams Zafar for two sixes off the first two balls.

A single off the third ball on the leg side helps him race to his fifty from just 22 balls -- the fastest half-century for USA in T20 Internationals.

Gous takes one before Jones misses the reverse sweep but swings the last ball high into the stands over midwicket for the third six of the over.

20 runs from the over as USA reach 126/2 in 13 overs, with 69 needed from seven overs for victory.
08:50

Gous, Jones get USA back on track

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USA 91-2 (11 ovs) vs Canada 194-5 | Scorecard

The momentum is firmly back with the US. Jones drives Zafar through the off-side for two runs before he reverse sweeps the next over short thirdman for a four.

He takes a single to long-off before Gous misses the clip off his pads to collect a leg bye.

Jones growing in confidence as he uses his feet to launch the spinner over long-on for a six.

14 runs from the over as USA recover to 81/2 in 10 overs at the halfway mark. They need another 114 from the remaining 10 overs for victory.

Gous has batted steadily to score 33 from 30 balls, while Jones stroked 21 from 13 balls.

Pacer Heyliger is back into the attack. He continues to be impressive as just three singles come from the first four balls.

Jones not holding back as he clubs the fifth ball over midwicket for a six and picks a single off the last ball to retain strike.
08:41

Gous, Jones revive USA


USA 67-2 (9 ovs) vs Canada 194-5 | Scorecard

Spinner Zafar continues as Gous takes a single first ball before Jones struggles to get going. He is beaten trying to cut Zafar followed by a single on the leg side.

Gous is struck on the pads last ball as he looks to swat it across the line for a leg bye.

Heyliger (1/9 in 2 overs) and Zafar (0/9 in 2 overs) have built some pressure on USA with some tight bowling in tandem.

The pressure is released as off-spinner Nikhil Dutta replaces Heyliger. He starts with a high full toss which is ruled a no-ball for height followed by a wide.

Gous makes most of the free hit delivery smashing Dutta straight down the ground for a six before he edges the next for two runs to thirdman followed by a single on the leg side.

Another wide from Dutta before Jones breaks free as he slog sweeps the spinner over midwicket for the second six of the over.

A single from the last ball makes it 19 runs from the over allowing USA to release some pressure.

With the dew taking effect it is proving to be difficult for the spinners to grip the ball.
08:33

USA lose 2nd wicket; Canada on top


USA 45-2 (7 ovs) vs Canada 194-5 | Scorecard

Things get worse for USA as Heyliger strikes with the wicket of Monank in his second over.

The USA skipper looks to break free as he comes down the track and has a big swing. The pacer gets some away movement to take the edge as the opener is caught behind after scoring 16 from as many balls.

Heyliger bowls another cracking delivery, getting the full delivery to move away as new batter Aaron Jones going for the drive is beaten.

Wicketkeeper Shreyas Movva is interested but nothing from the bowler.

Jones is struck on the pads by the full delivery which comes in followed by two wides down the leg side as the keeper half stops the wayward delivery.

Gous keeps strike with a single from the last ball to thirdman.
08:28

USA struggle after early wicket


USA 41-1 (6 ovs) vs Canada 194-5 | Scorecard

Gordon bowls a beauty, getting the length ball to move away to beat Monank as the ball goes past the outside edge and over the stumps.

He takes a single before Gordon again gets some seam movement to beat right-hander Gous.

The fourth ball is short and down the leg side and this time Gous swipes it past short fine leg for a four followed by two dots to end another good over from Gordon.

Pacer Dillon Heyliger comes into the attack. He starts with a wide before Monank carves the first ball over the covers for three runs.

Gous is beaten on the outside edge two balls in a row before he takes a single on the off-side.

Monank plays and misses before he inside edges the yorker on to his boots as Heyliger gives away just five runs in his first over.

Left-arm spinner Saeed Bin Zafar to bowl the final over of Powerplay. Gous clips the first ball for a single and Monank takes one into the covers off the third ball.

Zafar bowls short and wide as Gous misses out, cutting it straight to the fielder at point but makes most next ball as he cuts it for a four followed by a single off the last ball.

Canada have done well to restrict USA to 41/1 in six overs with Monank on 16 and Gous on 21.


08:14

Kaleem strikes; USA lose early wicket


USA 24-1 (3 ovs) vs Canada 194-5 | Scorecard

Pacer Jeremy Gordon from the other end. Monank is beaten as he attempts to swipe the first ball across the line before he takes a quick single next ball to get off the mark.

Gous also tries to slog across the line but is beaten before he hammers the fourth ball past point for a four.

He guides the fifth ball to thirdman for a single before Monank gets a lifeline last ball as the bowler Gordon puts down a tough chance last ball off his own bowling.

Kaleem gets some away movement as Gous plays and misses but the ball is ruled a wide before he takes a single on the off-side.

Some width from lleft-amer Kaleem as Monank slams it past point for a four and then takes one.

Kaleem bowls a wayward delivery outside the off-stump as wicketkeeper half stops it, to keep it down to two sides.

Monank looks to drive the full delivery but gets the thick inside edge which races past the wicketkeeper fine on the leg side for a four.

He hits the last hall hard as it falls just short of the fielder at mid-off for a single.

14 runs from the over as U|SA recover to 24/1 in three overs.
08:06

Kaleem strikes; USA lose early wicket


USA 4-1 (1 ov) vs Canada 194-5 | Scorecard

Steven Taylor and Monank Patel are the two openers for USA, while Kaleem Sana will bowl the first over for Canada.

A big blow for USA in the first over as Taylor is given out leg before wicket off the second ball. He takes the review but the impact is in line and the ball is going on to strike the stumps as the decision stands.

Taylor walks back for a two-ball duck as USA also lose their review.

Andries Gous is beaten as Kaleem gets some away movement and the same off the next ball.

Gous pulls the last ball in the gap through midwicket for a four to get USA off the mark.

07:43

Dhaliwal, Kirton power Canada to 194

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Canada 194-5 (20 ovs) vs USA | Scorecard

Anderson, among only five bowlers to have played World Cups for two countries, to bowl the 19th over. Movva mistimes pull shot off the first ball as it goes uppishly over the fielder on the leg side for two runs followed by a single.

Dilpreet Bajwa sweeps the third ball for a four to get off the mark. The next ball is pitched on length and Bajwa clubs it over midwicket for a six.

However, he is run out off the next ball trying to steal a tight second run to fall for 11 from five balls.

Ali Khan to bowl the final over. The first ball is pitched up as Shreyas lofts it down the ground for a six and then clips the yorker on the leg side for one.

A single for Dilon Heyliger followed by a wide, before Shreyas lofts the full ball over long-on for a four.

Ali goes short and wide and this time Shreyas hammers it over the covers for a six.

The last ball is hit down the ground for two runs as Canada finish on a huge 194/5 in their 20 overs.

Two sixes and a four from the last over in which Ali Khan was slammed for 21 runs.

Shreyas provided the final flourish, smashing 32 not out from 16 balls.
07:33

Kirton out for 51; Canada lose 4th wkt


Canada 159-4 (18 ovs) vs USA | Scorecard

Pacer Ali Khan is back into the attack. After a good over from Anderson, Khan continues to build the pressure with some tight bowling in the 18th over.

US pulling back things in the death overs as Canada struggle to get the boundaries.

Four runs from the first four balls before Kirton hits the full delivery straight to Anderson in the covers, who takes a sharp catch.

Kirton walks back after a good innings of 51 from 31 balls, with two sixes and three fours.

07:27

Canada's Kirton slams 28-ball fifty


Canada 155-3 (17 ovs) vs USA | Scorecard

Pacer Jasdeep is back into the attack. Singles from the first three balls before Kirton makes room to slash the bowler past point for a four.

Kirton gets one off the fifth ball before Shreyas scoops the last ball fine on the leg side for another four, to get 12 from the over.

The experienced Anderson bowls a tight over as he gives away just seven runs in his second over.

Kirton picks two runs from the last ball to complete his fifty from just 28 balls to keep Canada on course for a huge total.
07:19

Dhaliwal out for 61; Canada 3 down

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Canada 137-3 (15 ovs) vs USA | Scorecard

Former New Zealand player Corey Anderson to bowl his first over of the World Cup for his new team USA.

He strikes first ball to give US an important wicket. Dhaliwal looks to loft it down the ground but holes out to the fielder at long-off.

Dhaliwal walks back after a superb knock of 61 from 44 balls, having hit three sixes and six fours, putting on 62 runs for the third wicket with Kirton.

That was the cutter from Anderson as Dhaliwal ended up mistiming the lofted shot.

Shreyas Movva gets off the mark with a single to midwicket and Kirton pulls the next ball fine on the leg side for a four.

Kirton clips the fourth ball on the leg side for two runs. Infact, Anderson does well to run to his right and quickly throws back the ball to strike the stumps but Movva has done well to make his crease.

Singles off the last two balls as nine runs come from Anderson's first over.

Canada are well-placed on 137/3 in 15 overs with Kirton on 39 from 21 balls and Movva on two. They will be hoping for a strong finish to end up with a total around the 180-run mark.
07:11

Dhaliwal hits 50; Canada go past 100


Canada 128-2 (14 ovs) vs USA | Scorecard

Harmeet back to bowl his fourth and final over. Just two singles from the first four balls as Dhaliwal survives a stumping chance as he swings across the line but his feet are back in the crease.

Some flight from Harmeet and this time Dhaliwal hammers it down the ground for a four and slams the last ball through the covers for another boundary.

10 runs from his final over as Harmeet finishes with 1/27 from his four overs.

Pacer Shadley from the other end. He gifts Kirton a full toss which the left-hander despatches over the cover fence for a six. Another slower ball which is overpitched and this time Kirton plays a sweetly-timed drive straight down the ground for a four.

He clips the fifth ball in the gap through midwicket for two runs and slaps the last ball past point for two more, to get 16 from the over.
07:05

Dhaliwal hits 50; Canada go past 100

Navneet Dhaliwal
Navneet Dhaliwal

Canada 102-2 (12 ovs) vs USA | Scorecard

Left-arm pacer Netravalkar back into the attack. Kirton flicks the first ball to deep midwicket for a single and Dhaliwal plays a delightful inside out shot over the covers for two runs.

Two more singles as Netravalkar does well to concede just four runs in his second over.

Dhaliwal continues to find the boundaries. He lofts the full ball from pacer Shadley over the fielder at long-off for a six to take his score to 49.

The right-hander slaps the third ball over the off-side for a single to bring up his fifty from 36 balls on his World Cup debut.

That singles also raises Canada's 100, in the 12th over.
06:55

Pargat out for 5; Canada lose 2nd wkt


Canada 85-2 (10 ovs) vs USA | Scorecard

Harmeet, who bowled a good first spell of 1/13 in two overs, comes back into the attack.

Dhaliwal takes a single first ball to short thirdman and Nicholas Kirton is beaten off the first ball he faces before he takes one to long-on.

Two more singles as Harmeet gives away just four runs in his third over.

Off-spinner Steven Taylor comes into the attack. He starts with a full toss as Kirton makes most, hitting the first ball over the covers for a six.

He picks one into the covers before Dhaliwal lofts the spinner over long-on for the second six of the over.

Two more singles as 15 runs come from the over.

At the halfway mark, Canada are well-placed on 85/2 in 10 overs, with Dhaliwal on 40 from 30 balls and Kirton on 10.
06:48

Pargat out for 5; Canada lose 2nd wkt


Canada 66-2 (8 ovs) vs USA | Scorecard

Jasdeep to bowl his second over. The first ball strikes Parag on the pads as it looks a bit high but USA take the review. The ball is going over the stumps as the hosts lose their first review.

Dhaliwal continues to attack as he makes room to hit the third ball past point for a four.

Two balls later, he makes room to hit the pacer inside out over the covers for another boundary followed by a singles off the last ball to make it 10 runs from the over.

Pace bowler Shadley van Schalkwyk comes into the attack. Singles from the first three balls before Pargat clips the fourth ball for two runs behind square on the leg side.

He perishes off the last ball, run out looking for a tight second run to be dismissed for five.
06:37

Harmeet strikes; Canada lose 1st wkt


Canada 50-1 (6 ovs) vs USA | Scorecard

Left-arm spinner Harmeet Singh, who played the Under-19 World Cup for India and also featured in one game for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, comes into the attack to bowl the fourth over.

Dhaliwal uses his feet first ball but can't get the ball in the gap before he slaps the next past the fielder in the covers for a four to continue Canada's quickfire start.

Dhaliwal drives the fourth ball powerfully down to the fielder at long-off for one and Johnson taps the next on the leg side for a single.

Dhaliwal cuts the last ball but the fielder comes up with a diving stop to save a certain boundary.

Pace bowler Jasdeep Singh comes into the attack. Johnson swings and misses first ball and drives the next to the fielder at mid-off.

He gets a single third ball to deep point before Dhaliwal drags the slog off the inside half to deep midwicket for a single.

Jasdeep ends the over with two dots to Dhaliwal as he does well to concede just three runs in his opening over.

Harmeet brings USA relief with the opening wicket. Johnson looks to hit over the top but holes out to Nitish Kumar at long-off after scoring 23 from 16 balls.

Pargat Singh gets off the mark with a single and Dhaliwal hits the last ball for a six over the covers to bring up USA's 50, in the sixth over.
06:22

Canada off to flying start vs USA


Canada 34-0 (3 ovs) vs USA | Scorecard

Left-arm pacer Saurabh Netravalkar into the attack from the other end. Dhaliwal punches the second ball to the fielder in the gap through the off-side for a boundary.

Singles off the next three balls before Johnson steers the last ball in the gap past short thirdman for another four, to get 11 runs from the over.

Ali Khan to bowl his second over. Dhaliwal is struck on the pads first ball as he misses the clip to collect a leg bye.

Johnson swats the next ball getting it off the inside half as it goes in the gap through midwicket for a four.

He misses the pull shot next ball as Ali Khan beats him for pace but the ball goes off the helmet fine on the off-side for four leg byes.

Ali goes full and wide as Johnson hammers it over the off-side for a boundary and glances the fifth ball past short fine leg for another four.

17 runs from the over as Canada race to 34 for no loss in three overs. 
06:11

US win toss; elect to bowl vs Canada


Canada 6-0 (1 ov) vs USA | Scorecard

Aaron Johnson and Navneet Dhaliwal are the two openers for Canada, while Ali Khan will open the bowling for hosts USA.

The first ball is a loosener, a wide half-volley which Johnson cracks in the gap through the covers for a four to get the World Cup started in cracking fashion.

The next ball is quicker as Johnson inside edges the pull on to his pads before he misses the flick as the ball goes off the pads for a leg bye.

Dhaliwal is beaten as he tries to hit the pacer through the off-side and he picks a single off the last ball to retain strike. 
06:04

US win toss; elect to bowl vs Canada


United States captain Monank Patel has won the toss and elected to bowl against Canada in the opening match of the T20 World Cup in Dallas on Sunday.

Check out the playing XIs of the two teams:

United States: Steven Taylor, Monank Patel (captain, w/k), Andries Gous, Aaron Jones, Nitish Kumar, Corey Anderson, Harmeet Singh, Shadley van Schalkwyk, Jasdeep Singh, Ali Khan, Saurabh Netravalkar.

Canada: Saad Bin Zafar (captain), Aaron Johnson, Navneet Dhaliwal, Pargat Singh, Nicholas Kirton, Shreyas Movva (w/k), Dilpreet Singh, Nikhil Dutta, Dillon Heyliger, Kaleem Sana, Jeremy Gordon.