In a closely contested T20 World Cup warm-up match at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, New Zealand narrowly defeated the USA by seven runs, with standout performances from Matt Henry and key contributions from both teams.
Led by Saiteja Mukkamalla, alongside captain Monank Patel, Milind Kumar, and Shubham Ranjane, USA put up a strong fight after being set a target of 209. The Americans reached 200 before falling short, with Henry’s impressive five-wicket haul playing a pivotal role in dampening their charge.
New Zealand’s innings was powered by Tim Seifert’s explosive 66 off 31 balls, featuring 10 fours and two sixes. Early wickets for the USA, including Saurabh Netravalkar dismissing Devon Conway and Mohammad Mohsin taking out Mark Chapman, kept the Kiwis in check. Glenn Phillips then unleashed a swift 40 off 18 balls, while Mitchell’s 32 and subsequent cameos from Mitchell Santner and James Neesham pushed New Zealand past 200.
USA’s chase began disastrously with opener Andries Gous dismissed for a duck by Henry on the very first ball. Mukkamalla and Monank Patel steadied the innings, putting on 59 for the third wicket before Ish Sodhi dismissed both. Mukkamalla scored a valuable 50, while Milind Kumar contributed 43 off 26 balls and Ranjane added 41 off 23.
However, Henry’s sensational bowling in the final overs, including a decisive twin-wicket over that conceded just four runs, sealed the victory for New Zealand. His five-wicket haul and clutch final overs kept USA just short of victory.
USA will face India in their tournament opener on February 7 in Mumbai, while New Zealand is set to play Afghanistan in Chennai the following day.