Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: US President Donald Trump sent a strong message of support to the American cricket team competing in the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India, saying the entire country was backing the side as it continues its journey on the global stage.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!“I just heard the Cricket World Cup is underway in India! I wish the best of luck to TEAM USA! We have a very strong team. America is rooting for you!” Trump said in a post on Truth Social on Sunday, drawing attention to a sport that is still growing in popularity in the United States.
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor responded to the message, writing, “Thank you for the kind words Mr. President!”, highlighting the diplomatic and sporting enthusiasm around the tournament.The USA, led by Monank Patel, is featuring in its second T20 World Cup after co-hosting the 2024 edition, where matches were held at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York, including the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash. Although not a traditional cricket-playing nation, the American squad largely comprises players of Indian origin and has steadily gained global attention.
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On the field, defending champions India, captained by Suryakumar Yadav, defeated the USA by 29 runs at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. India posted 161/9 in 20 overs, powered by Suryakumar’s unbeaten 84 off 49 balls, while Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma provided crucial support. Shadley van Schalkwyk (4/29) and Harmeet Singh (2/26) impressed with the ball for the visitors.Chasing 162, the USA managed 132/8 despite fighting knocks from Milind Kumar, Sanjay Krishnamurthi and Shubham Ranjane, with Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel and Arshdeep Singh leading India’s bowling effort.After the India clash, the USA will travel to Sri Lanka for a high-voltage encounter against Pakistan on February 10 — a rematch carrying added intrigue after their stunning win over the rivals in the 2024 tournament.
