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The T20 World Cup 2026 kicks off with a bang as hosts India take on the USA tomorrow at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. While India enters as the clear favourite, fans haven't forgotten the 2024 World Cup India vs USA scare, where the USA gave the Men in Blue a tough fight.
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Here are three key face-offs that could decide the match:
3 Key Battles to Watch Out For
1. Abhishek Sharma vs Saurabh Netravalkar
This is the battle of "Fire vs Ice." India’s opener Abhishek Sharma has been in terrifying form, recently smashing a 35-ball 84 against New Zealand. With a career strike rate hovering near 195, he looks to attack from ball one. Standing in his way is Saurabh Netravalkar, the Oracle engineer who silenced India’s top order in 2024 by dismissing both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Netravalkar’s ability to swing the new ball both ways will be the ultimate test for Abhishek’s aggressive intent.
2. Ishan Kishan vs Ali Khan
With Ishan Kishan likely taking the gloves, all eyes are on his explosive batting. Coming off a stellar New Zealand series where he averaged 53.75, Kishan loves pace on the ball. He will face Ali Khan, the USA’s fastest bowler. Khan is known for his deadly yorkers and has taken over 10 wickets in his last 5 international outings. If Khan pitches it up, Kishan will drive; if he misses his length, the ball might land in the stands.
3. Andries Gous vs Jasprit Bumrah
Andries Gous has been the USA's batting backbone, scoring over 750 T20I runs at a solid average of 32. He is excellent against spin, but facing Jasprit Bumrah is a different ball game. The world’s best bowler, Bumrah (economy under 6.00), rarely gives an inch. Gous must survive Bumrah’s opening spell if the USA hopes to put up a competitive total at the Wankhede.
Match Prediction: India is expected to win, but expect the USA to fight hard in the first 6 overs.
