Aaron Jones’ blistering 94* off 40 balls led USA to victory over Canada in the opening match | USA vs Canada | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024

Aaron Jones delivered a stunning performance, smashing Canada to lead the USA to victory in the first match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. His explosive innings of 94 not out off just 40 balls set the tone for the tournament, showcasing his skill and power. He scored 10 sixes in this inning. This exceptional display not only secured a win for the USA but also marked a strong start for the team in the World Cup. With Jones’ standout performance, the USA has sent a clear message of their intent and capability in the competition, raising expectations for their campaign ahead.

Key Highlights of USA vs Canada match

• Aaron Jones delivered a stunning performance, scoring 94 not out off just 40 balls. Jones hit 10 sixes in his explosive innings.
• Canada set a competitive total of 194 runs for 5 wickets in 20 overs.
• Key Canadian batsmen: Navneet Dhaliwal [61(44)] and Nicholas Kirton [51(33)].
• Andries Gous and Aaron Jones, stepped up with a 131-run partnership off 58 balls. Their partnership shifted the momentum and made the target more manageable.
• Andries Gous scored 65 runs off 46 balls, including 3 sixes.

1st Innings | Canada sets good target

The USA won the toss and elected to bowl first, inviting Canada to set the stage by batting first. Canada began with a solid performance, setting a competitive total of 194 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 20 overs. Canada’s innings was marked by the aggressive batting of Navneet Dhaliwal [61(44)] and Nicholas Kirtan [51(33)] putting pressure on the USA bowlers. Despite the USA’s efforts to contain the scoring, Canada’s batsmen capitalized on opportunities to build a formidable total, setting up an exciting chase for the USA in the inaugural match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.

2nd Innings | Aaron Jones Blast

Chasing a challenging target of 195 runs, the USA got off to a bad start. On the second ball of their innings, Kaleem Sana struck early, dismissing Steven Taylor and delivering a significant blow to the USA’s top order. The situation worsened when the USA lost their second wicket on the third ball of the seventh over, with the team’s total standing at just 42 runs in the form of Monank Patel. This early setback put additional pressure on the middle order, forcing them to stabilize the innings while keeping up with the demanding required run rate.

With the early setbacks putting the USA in a precarious position, the middle order stepped up admirably to take responsibility. Andries Gous and Aaron Jones forged a remarkable partnership, demonstrating resilience and aggressive stroke play. Together, they amassed an impressive 131-run stand off just 58 balls, a feat that shifted the momentum entirely in favor of the USA.

Gous played a crucial supporting role, anchoring the innings and rotating the strike effectively. Meanwhile, Aaron Jones was in sublime form, unleashing a barrage of boundaries and sixes that left the Canadian bowlers struggling to regain control. This explosive partnership not only stabilized the innings but also significantly accelerated the scoring rate, putting the USA back on track for a successful chase.

Gous lost his wicket on individual score of 65 runs in 46 balls included 3 amazing sixes. Their combined efforts made the daunting target of 195 runs appear much more manageable. By the time their partnership was broken, the required run rate had plummeted, and the USA was within striking distance of victory.

Their performance set a positive tone for the USA’s campaign in the tournament, showcasing their ability to overcome early challenges and secure decisive victories. Aaron Jones got victory for USA with a six.

Result

USA won by 7 wickets

Player of the Match

Aaron Jones