The Five Biggest Upsets in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup History: The Men’s T20 World Cup is renowned for its thrilling moments, from spectacular catches to exciting finishes. However, nothing captures the imagination of cricket fans around the world more than a classic upset. Here, we revisit five of the most sensational upsets in the tournament’s history, culminating in USA’s historic win on home soil in 2024.
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1. USA Beats Pakistan, 2024
In what is acclaimed as one of the most extraordinary moments in cricket history, the USA made a stunning entry onto the world stage by defeating Pakistan in a thrilling encounter.
Facing each other for the first time in a T20 International, the USA employed a carefully planned strategy, restricting Pakistan to 159 runs in 20 overs. The USA then matched that score, pushing the game into a Super Over.
The hosts performed brilliantly under pressure, scoring 18 runs, while Pakistan could only manage 13. This historic win not only marked the rise of the USA in international cricket but also captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
2. Ireland Beats England, 2022
Ireland’s victory over England in 2022 demonstrated their tenacity and capacity to perform under pressure. In 2010, Ireland had unresolved matters after scaring England in the Caribbean.
They managed a respectable 157 in 19.2 overs in Melbourne. As with their last meeting, rain was a major factor. Play was halted in the fifteenth over of England’s innings, leaving them five runs short of the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern par score, and allowing Ireland to win a historic match.
3. Namibia Beats Sri Lanka, 2022
Namibia’s win over Sri Lanka in Geelong, Australia, was a moment of immense joy for the African nation. Namibia set a challenging target by scoring 163 runs.
In response, Sri Lanka’s top order faltered, and they were bowled out for just 108 in 19 overs. Four Namibian bowlers took two wickets each, capping off a stunning team performance that left the cricketing world in awe.
4. Afghanistan Beats West Indies, 2016
The 2016 tournament saw Afghanistan pull off a stunning upset against the eventual champions, West Indies. Hosted by India, this match in the Super 10 stage left the West Indies reeling.
Batting first, Afghanistan scored 123/7, with Najibullah Zadran contributing a crucial 48 off 40 balls. Afghanistan’s bowlers then restricted the West Indies to 117/8, securing a six-run victory.
This unexpected result was a wake-up call for the West Indies, who went on to win the tournament but not without remembering this humbling defeat.
5. Netherlands Beats England, 2009
The first ICC Men’s T20 World Cup saw one of the most shocking upsets when the Netherlands beat England at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. England posted a respectable 163, a score that seemed defendable.
However, the Netherlands chased down the target in a dramatic fashion, scoring the winning runs off the last ball. An overthrow allowed the Dutch batsmen to scramble for a second run, sealing an unforgettable victory. Tom de Grooth, who scored 49 off 30 balls, was named Player of the Match, cementing his place in cricket folklore.
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