Pakistan sealed a comfortable 32-run victory over the United States in their second Group A match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Colombo’s SSC Ground on Tuesday, strengthening their push for the top spot and setting up a key clash with India on Sunday.

After being sent in to bat by USA captain Monank Patel, Pakistan posted 190 for nine in their allotted 20 overs, the third-highest total of the tournament so far. In reply, the United States were restricted to 158 for eight, falling short of the 191-run target.

Openers Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan gave Pakistan a brisk start, adding 54 runs in the powerplay. Ayub was the first to depart, caught after scoring 19, while Salman Ali Agha followed soon after for one, leaving Pakistan at 56 for two.

Farhan then rebuilt the innings with Babar Azam, as the pair added 81 runs for the third wicket to steady the middle overs. Babar struck 46 off 32 balls, including four fours and a six, before being dismissed with the total at 137.

Pakistan briefly lost momentum after Babar’s exit, with Farhan falling in the next over. The opener, however, had already laid the foundation with a fluent 73 off 41 balls, featuring five sixes and six fours.

Shadab Khan provided late acceleration with a quick 30 off 12 deliveries, hitting four boundaries and a six. He shared a crucial 34-run partnership with Mohammad Nawaz to lift the score to 177.

The United States bowlers fought back in the final overs, claiming quick wickets. Faheem Ashraf and Nawaz departed cheaply, and Pakistan finished on 190 for nine.

Earlier, at the toss, Monank Patel opted to field, expressing confidence in his bowling attack. Pakistan made one change to their playing XI, bringing in spinner Usman Tariq in place of Salman Mirza, while the USA replaced Ali Khan with former Pakistan pacer Ehsan Adil.

Speaking after the toss, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha said his side was aiming to post a big total and build on recent strong performances. The USA skipper said his team would look to bowl tightly after showing improvement against India in their previous match.

Pakistan entered the contest after a narrow three-wicket win over the Netherlands, while the United States were coming off a 29-run defeat against India.

With their second consecutive victory, Pakistan moved to the top of the Group A standings and boosted their qualification hopes. The United States, meanwhile, face increased pressure, with the remaining matches now turning into must-win encounters.