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Milind Kumar and Nosthush Kenjige Lead USA to Record-Breaking Victory in Spin-Dominated Clash
In a historic match dominated entirely by spin, USA defended the lowest total in men’s ODI history, surpassing India’s long-standing record. Led by an all-round masterclass from Milind Kumar and a sensational five-wicket haul from Nosthush Kenjige, the USA bowled out Oman for just 65 runs after setting a modest target of 122. The spin-friendly Al-Amarat wicket ensured that not a single fast bowler bowled across both innings, making it one of the most unique ODIs in recent times.
USA’s Struggles with the Bat: Milind Kumar Stands Tall
A Shaky Start for USA
USA’s innings started on a disastrous note as opener Smit Patel fell in the very first over, miscuing a shot straight to cover. Struggling for form in the series, Patel’s poor run continued. In an attempt to stabilize, USA promoted left-arm spinning all-rounder Harmeet Singh to No. 3, a move aimed at countering Oman’s spin attack. Harmeet briefly counter-attacked but perished while attempting an aggressive shot over mid-off.
The troubles worsened when Monank Patel was dismissed for a 10-ball duck, undone by an unplayable delivery from Aamir Kaleem that hit the top of off-stump. Andries Gous, who tried to take on the Oman bowlers, fell leg-before-wicket to Shakeel Ahmed, leaving USA in deep trouble inside the powerplay.
Milind Kumar Anchors the Innings
With USA reeling, Milind Kumar emerged as the savior, blending patience and attacking intent on a challenging pitch. His gritty 47 off 82 balls* became the backbone of the USA innings. Displaying excellent footwork, he used the crease effectively to counter Oman’s spin-heavy attack.
Small but crucial contributions from Aaron Jones and Sanjay Krishnamurthy gave USA brief hope before Samay Shrivastav’s mystery spin cleaned up the tail in quick succession. Despite Milind Kumar’s resilience, USA was bowled out for just 122—a total that seemed far from competitive.
Oman’s Chase Crumbles Under USA’s Spin Web
USA’s Fielding Brilliance Sets the Tone
Despite defending a low total, USA came out with aggressive intent. Oman’s Jatinder Singh attempted a switch-hit early on but was brilliantly caught by Nosthush Kenjige, marking the start of a dramatic collapse. Soon after, Aamir Kaleem fell to a spectacular catch from Krishnamurthy, putting Oman on the back foot at 10/2.
Kenjige and Yasir Mohammed Turn the Game
For a brief period, Hammad Mirza and Hashir Dafedar steadied the ship, building a partnership of 22 runs. However, the introduction of leg-spinner Yasir Mohammed turned the tide—in his first game of the tour, he bowled Dafedar with a classic leg-break and later trapped Sufyan Mehmood with a deceptive wrong ‘un.
From 50/3, Oman crumbled to 65 all out, thanks to Kenjige’s devastating spell of 5 for 11—his best-ever ODI figures. His ability to extract spin and deceive batters in flight saw Oman lose their last seven wickets for just 15 runs, sealing a stunning 57-run victory for the USA.
Historic Win Puts USA on Top of League Table
With this victory, USA now leads the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 table with 22 points, pulling ahead of Oman, who remain on 18. This performance cements their growing stature in Associate cricket, proving they can compete at the highest level.
Key Takeaways from USA’s Record-Breaking Victory
- Lowest total successfully defended in men’s ODI history (122 runs)
- First ODI in which no fast bowler bowled a single over
- Kenjige’s career-best spell (5 for 11 in 5.1 overs)
- Milind Kumar’s crucial 47, the only score above 30 in the match*
- Two outstanding catches from USA players changed the momentum
This match will be remembered as a milestone in USA cricket, demonstrating their ability to win games even in difficult conditions.
USA Cricket’s Road to ICC World Cup
Official ICC World Cup League 2 Standings
