'Monank has put in the hard yards,' says dad Dilip Patel

USA skipper Monank Patel celebrates his half-century v Pak last week. Pic/Getty Images

Two unbeaten teams in Group A of the ICC T20 World Cup, India and USA, are primed for a showdown in New York on June 12. India's flawless run was expected, but USA's surprising success, including a notable victory over Pakistan, turned heads. Pakistan, now in a precarious position, suffered losses to both teams, with USA fielding six players of Indian origin in their recent match.

These wins are a significant morale booster for cricket in USA. Many American players were present at the high-stakes India-Pakistan game, hoping for an Indian victory to bolster their chances of advancing to the Super Eight, and were visibly pleased with India's triumph.

Monank Patel, USA captain and wicketkeeper, has confidently steered his team. Notably, six of USA's eleven players have Indian heritage. When asked by mid-day who he would support on June 12 - his son's birth country or current residence - Monank's father, Dilip responded, "I support cricket. If you perform well, you deserve to win. In this format, anything can happen on any given day."

Monank has encountered various trials, such as the loss of his mother, the uncertainties of his restaurant business, and the challenges in his cricket career. Dilip remarked, "Monank has put in a lot of hard work. We are all here to back him up. His family, friends, and supporters have gathered to witness his game."

Vijay Shah, a New Yorker with roots in Baroda and a longtime cricket enthusiast, shared his perspective with mid-day: "Cricket fans are passionate. While they will root for India against the USA, true sports fans will critique both teams if their displays are below par."

He emphasised, "I anticipate a competitive match between USA and India. USA may be underdogs, but anything is possible with two wins in this tournament."

The upcoming clash between India and USA promises to be electrifying. Both sides are eager to uphold their winning streaks and secure a spot in the Super Eight.