The USA launched their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup campaign in spectacular fashion, crushing Canada by seven wickets in a dominant display at Grand Prairie Stadium. Aaron Jones’ breathtaking knock of 94 runs from just 40 balls stole the show, leaving the Canadian bowlers helpless.
Early wicket, steady Partnership
Canada, after winning the toss, opted to bat first and gave USA the target of 195. USA’s innings started poorly with the dangerous Steve Taylor dismissed for a duck by left-arm seamer Kaleem Sana. Andries Gous, joining skipper Monank Patel at the crease, tried to accelerate the scoring with some boundaries.
Canada managed to keep things tight, with Monank departing for 16 after attempting a big shot against Dillon Heyliger. A six each from Gous and Jones in the 9th over helped USA regain momentum. Jones continued his aggressive approach, taking boundaries off Canadian skipper Saad Bin Zafar in the 10th over.
Aaron Jones and Andries Gous Unleash Mayhem
The partnership between Gous and Jones blossomed as they upped the ante. From 81/2, the pair added a staggering 45 runs in just three overs. Jones, in particular, was unstoppable, smashing three sixes off Saad in the 13th over to reach the fastest ever T20I fifty for USA in a mere 22 balls. Gous wasn’t far behind, reaching his own fifty in the following over.
A lucky escape – a no-ball from Gordon after Gous skied a delivery – allowed Jones to capitalize with his eighth six off the next ball. Their incredible 100-run partnership came off just 45 balls, leaving the Canadian bowlers with no answers.
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Dominant Finish for USA
Gous eventually departed for a well-made 65, but by then, USA were firmly in control. Jones remained unbeaten on a jaw-dropping 94 from 40 balls, including a staggering 10 sixes and 4 fours. His dominant knock sealed a comfortable seven-wicket victory for the hosts, marking a dream start to their T20 World Cup campaign.
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