USA got their 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup campaign off to a blistering start as they beat Canada by chasing 195 runs in Texas. It was a statement of intent from the USA as Aaron Jones put on a batting exhibition to take his side to the finish line.
The 23-year-old put on an exhibition of power and precision as he struck an unbeaten 94 from just 40 balls – his best T20I score. He also hit 10 sixes in the match – level with Paul Collingwood against South Africa in 2007 and Rashid Khan against Ireland in 2017, the most sixes hit by a player in a T20 World Cup match.
Aaron Jones Leads USA’s Charge in 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Opener
The USA had an amazing start at the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. They chased and scored 195 before Canada in Texas this weekend. Aaron Jones played a big role in their strong chase, playing an excellent game to start the T20 event.
Jones hit a career-best 94 not out in just 40 turns, with four fours and 10 sixes. The 29-year-old supported his earlier talk about the team’s plan, stressing the wish to play “brave cricket, good cricket, clever cricket” and to “give it their all on the field.”
His 10 sixes tied the mark for most sixes by a hitter in a T20 World Cup game, tying West Indies hero Chris Gayle, who hit 11 sixes against England in the 2016 T20 World Cup.
Also Read: Lyon ‘Surprised’ by Anderson’s Sudden Retirement at 40
Who Is Aaron Jones?
Aaron Jones is a former professional cricketer who played cricket in Barbados and is a long-time childhood friend of England and 2019 ODI World Cup champion Jofra Archer. Jones, born on 19 October 1994, made his first-class debut in 2017 and scored 342 runs in seven matches.
Jones qualified to represent the USA at the international level after playing domestic cricket in the Caribbean and has since become a regular member of the national team. There are conflicting reports over where he was born, with some stating Queens (New York) and others Barbados.
Jones scored his first List A century during the World Cricket League Division Two, the tournament which saw the USA earn ODI status in 2019. Jones has played 43 ODIs and scored 1454 runs with an average of 36.35 and a strike rate of 70.78, including one century and 10 half-centuries.
In March 2019, he debuted in T20I format and scored 478 runs in 27 T20I so far at a strike rate of 116.87, including two half-centuries. He is also a part-time leg-spinner, who has taken six wickets in his T20I career so far.
Also Read: Ben Stokes and Bedingham Boom in Match Against Somerset
Conclusion
Chasing 195 runs against Canada, Jones’ unbeaten 94-run inning included a record-equal number of sixes (10) in a T20 World Cup game. The right-hander’s 54-ball 94 ensured that USA romped to a 55-run victory in their opening match of the tournament. It was an all-round performance by the USA as the team which scored over 200 runs in the last T20I against Mexico, continued to dominate in their first game of the day. This win over Canada has put the USA in a commanding position to automatically qualify for the 2024 T20 World Cup.
About the Author
Rubass Afnan is a passionate sports writer. Rubass brings 3 years of writing experience, with a strong focus on the world of sports. His passion for athletics translates into engaging content, but his skills extend beyond the playing field. He thrives on crafting informative and clear pieces across various industries. You can follow him on LinkedIn for more amazing content related to his skills and passion. Don’t forget to follow.
For More Great Content
Check out all the great content Total Apex Sports has to offer. Check us out on X @TotalApexSports and our other sites: Total Apex Sports Bets and Total Apex Fantasy Sports.
