USA claim their first-ever T20I win over a Test-playing nation
What's the story
A 110-run partnership between Sushant Modani and Gajanand Singh helped the United States beat Ireland in the first T20I.
USA successfully defended 188 to claim their first-ever T20I win over a Test-playing nation.
Saurabh Netravalkar, Ali Khan, and Nisarg Patel scalped two wickets apiece.
USA hosted a Test-playing nation for the first time (bilateral series).
Here is the match report.
Context
Why does it matter?
The United States is hosting a Test-playing nation for the first time.
Before this series, they had only hosted PNG and Namibia.
USA stunned Ireland despite surviving an initial scare.
They humbled a side who has been playing international cricket regularly.
The Monank Patel-led side will now aim to rout Ireland 2-0 in the two-match T20I series.
Match
How did the match pan out?
USA faltered at the start after electing to bat. They were reduced to 16/4, with the top four scoring in single figures.
Sushant Modani and Gajanand Singh put on 110 runs to steady USA's ship.
Marty Kain (39*) powered them to 188/6.
Although Ireland were off to a solid start, they couldn't finish well (162/6).
Lorcan Tucker's 57* couldn't get them over the line.
Information
Ninth T20I win for USA
USA claimed their ninth T20I win, beating Ireland by 26 runs. They have played a total of 15 T20Is, losing five (1 NR). As stated, the US played their first T20I against a Test-playing nation. They are unbeaten in their last seven T20Is.
Duo
Modani and Gajanand share a century stand
Sushant Modani and Gajanand Singh shared a century stand after USA were reduced to 16/4.
The duo was watchful at the start but accelerated in time.
Modani finished with 50 off 39 balls (3 fours and 1 six).
His compatriot Gajanand racked up 65 off 42 balls with the help of 3 fours and 5 sixes.
Both players smashed their maiden T20I half-centuries.
Performers
Other notable performers in the match
Fast bowler Barry McCarthy was the pick of Ireland's bowlers. He registered figures of 4/30.
Top-order batter Lorcan Tucker was the lone warrior for them in the run-chase.
He remained unbeaten on 57 off 49 balls.
For USA, Saurabh Netravalkar, Ali Khan, and Nisarg Patel accounted for two wickets each.
Marty Kain, who smashed a brilliant 39*, also chipped in with four overs.