Mumbai as a boost to the US WC campaign

In the first T20I of the three-match series in Houston on Tuesday, all-rounder Harmeet Singh and bowler Saurabh Netravalkar, both former Mumbai players, assisted the United States in recording their first victory against Bangladesh. This victory served as a perfect warm-up for their participation in the T20 World Cup next month.

The USA limited the visiting team to 153-6 in the allowed 20 overs, thanks to the disciplined bowling of Netravalkar (1-27) and off-spinner Steven Taylor (2-9). After that, Corey Anderson’s undefeated 25-ball 34 (2×6) and Harmeet’s aggressive 13-ball 33 not out (2×4, 3×6) helped Monank Patel’s side win by five wickets with three balls remaining.

It’s a significant accomplishment for the United States. To defeat formidable teams, we need a performance like this. Harmeet said at midday on Wednesday, “With such performances, ICC will trust us more and invest more in USA cricket.”

On June 1st, in Dallas, the USA will play Canada in the World Cup. They face Pakistan on June 6 at the same location, while the major match is scheduled for June 12 in New York versus India. Harmeet is eager to take advantage of these chances. She was instrumental in India’s 2012 U-19 World Cup victory in Australia, when she was captained by Unmukt Chand.

As far as I’m concerned, I have to perform well against a formidable opponent—a country that plays Test cricket. I relished the victory.

“Everyone speaks about USA cricket these days. Our match is being watched by other countries, so it will undoubtedly have an impact on the next T20 World Cup, which begins in the USA and the West Indies on June 1. We are quite happy with this victory. We don’t play around,” Harmeet said.

“Harmeet performed brilliantly.”
The USA captain, Netravalkar, commended Harmeet after winning the match. “This victory is a significant turning point for USA cricket. It is entirely a team effort. Harmeet performed well. He is a huge asset to our group. We’re very excited about our victory ahead of the T20 World Cup. Netravalkar said, “We felt that if we gave it our all, we could defeat any squad.

At the same location on Thursday, the USA and Bangladesh will play their second Twenty20 international.