USA Cricket Team Returns to T20 World Cup 2026

Key players to watch as the U.S. aims to build on its 2024 breakthrough

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The United States cricket team is preparing for its second appearance on the world stage at the 2026 T20 World Cup, kicking off against host nation India on February 7th. After a stunning debut in 2024 that included a historic upset victory over Pakistan, the team aims to build on that momentum and replicate their success, despite facing a challenging group that again includes both India and Pakistan.

Why it matters

The USA's strong performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup marked a significant turning point for cricket in the United States, generating excitement and momentum for the sport. Their return to the 2026 tournament provides an opportunity to further establish the USA as a rising force in international cricket and inspire more Americans to take up the sport.

The details

In 2024, the USA secured a seven-wicket victory over Canada and a shocking upset win over Pakistan, propelling them into the Super 8s round. Key players leading the charge include captain and wicketkeeper Monank Patel, left-arm pacer Saurabh Netravalkar, rising batting star Saiteja Mukkamalla, and proven run-scorer Andries Gous. The team will also welcome the international experience of Shehan Jayasuriya, who previously represented Sri Lanka. However, they will be without the services of Aaron Jones, a key batsman suspended by the ICC due to anti-corruption code breaches.

  • The 2026 T20 World Cup kicks off on February 7th.
  • The USA will face host nation India in their opening match.

The players

Monank Patel

The captain and wicketkeeper, providing both leadership and defensive strength. His standout performance against Pakistan in 2024 earned him Player of the Match honors.

Saurabh Netravalkar

The left-arm pacer who spearheads the USA's bowling attack, boasting 40 career wickets in 41 matches. He played a pivotal role in the Pakistan upset, skillfully defending 18 runs in the super over.

Saiteja Mukkamalla

A 21-year-old batting star currently ranked 24th in the world by the ICC, surpassing even established batsmen like Pakistan's Babar Azam. He maintains an impressive T20 average of 42.60, with 639 runs in 18 matches.

Andries Gous

Emerged as the USA's top run-scorer in the 2024 World Cup, demonstrating his ability with a half-century against Canada. In 25 career T20 matches, Gous has accumulated 751 runs, averaging 32.65.

Shehan Jayasuriya

Set to make his Team USA debut in the 2026 World Cup, bringing international experience after previously representing Sri Lanka in 12 ODIs and 18 T20Is between 2015 and 2020.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The USA's return to the T20 World Cup provides an opportunity to build on their 2024 breakthrough and further establish cricket as a growing sport in the United States. With a talented roster led by experienced players and rising stars, the team will look to capitalize on their chances and potentially shock the world once again.