World Cup T20 United States vs Canada 1st Match
Nearly two centuries after the first-ever international contest in any sport, the United States and Canada are set to renew their rivalry in a highly anticipated T20 World Cup opener. In April, the USA convincingly defeated Canada 4-0 in Houston, playing in front of sparse crowds. However, the grand event in Dallas promises to revive the fan fervor reminiscent of the sport's glory days in pre-Civil War America.
Playing before a crowd of 7,000 will undoubtedly bring nerves, especially for players accustomed to near-empty stands. However, the USA might have an edge, with stars like Corey Anderson and Ali Khan experienced in larger arenas. Additionally, the American squad has the advantage of playing a Major League Cricket (MLC) season in front of packed Dallas audiences.
Canada, on the other hand, has had more game time on the Dallas pitch leading up to the World Cup. They registered a clinical win against Nepal in their first warm-up match before inclement weather washed away their final warm-up game, as well as both of the USA’s scheduled matches.
The USA looks formidable after their historic series victory against a full-strength Bangladesh team. The inclusion of seasoned professionals like Corey Anderson, Andries Gous, and Harmeet Singh has transformed the team. Gous’ aggressive middle-over batting and ability to find boundaries off good deliveries have invigorated the USA’s batting lineup. Anderson and Harmeet’s all-around skills were pivotal in the Bangladesh series.
In April, USA batters overwhelmed Canada’s inexperienced bowlers, with the new ball bowlers conceding over 10 runs per over in the powerplay. However, Canada will have senior left-arm seamer Kaleem Sana and veteran Jeremy Gordon back to stabilize the new ball attack. The return of experienced player Ravinderpal Singh has also bolstered Canada; his explosive 41* off 17 balls was crucial in their warm-up win against Nepal.
Match Details:
- When: USA vs. Canada, June 1, 7:30 PM Local, 6:00 AM IST (June 2)
- Where: Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas, Texas
What to Expect: The average score in 12 MLC games at this venue last year was 167, with teams batting first winning 8 out of 12 matches. The pitch favors expressive batting, although the new ball can swing under lights. As the surface hardens in its second season, first-innings scores are expected to rise. Recent rains should not affect the pitch, as hot temperatures are expected to dry out any remaining moisture.
USA Probable XI:
- Monank Patel (c & wk)
- Aaron Jones
- Steven Taylor
- Nitish Kumar
- Corey Anderson
- Jasdeep Singh
- Ali Khan
- Saurabh Netravalkar
- Harmeet Singh
- Andries Gous
- Nostush Kenjige/Shadley Van Schalkwyk
Canada Probable XI:
- Navneet Dhaliwal
- Aaron Johnson
- Pargat Singh
- Shreyas Movva (wk)
- Ravinderpal Singh
- Nicholas Kirton
- Saad Bin Zafar (c)
- Kaleem Sana
- Nikhil Dutta
- Dilon Heyliger
- Jeremy Gordon
