“We Will Come Back Stronger”: USA Captain Monank Patel After Loss To India In T20 World Cup 2026

USA captain Monank Patel expressed pride and optimism despite his team’s 29-run defeat to India in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 opener at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Facing the defending champions in front of a massive crowd, the USA put up a spirited fight, and Patel believes the experience will only make his team stronger.

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Patel praised his bowlers for their sharp understanding of the conditions and their disciplined start. “I thought our bowlers did a great job. The way they assessed the conditions and the pitch gave us a good momentum and a good start. Here and there, we dropped a few catches that cost us the game. I thought 160 was a good score. We will take this score any day on this pitch,” he said, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

On the batting front, Patel admitted the top order faltered in the chase of 162, but highlighted the composure shown by the middle order. “The top three couldn’t perform, and I thought the intent was missing. But a lot of learning and a lot of positives from this game,” he added.

He further said the team gained confidence from the way they handled pressure against a world-class opponent. “The way we handled the pressure, playing in front of a big crowd and against India, lots of positives. It’s going to help us in the next three games. We will come back stronger.”

Earlier in the match, India posted 161/9 on the back of captain Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeaten 84 off 49 balls, a knock decorated with 10 fours and four sixes. For the USA, Shadley van Schalkwyk (4/29) and Harmeet Singh (2/26) were the standout bowlers.

USA’s reply was dented early as they slipped to 13/3, but fighting knocks from Milind Kumar (34), Sanjay Krishnamurthi (37) and Shubham Ranjane (37*) took them to 132/8. India’s bowling unit, led by Mohammed Siraj (3/29), Axar Patel (2/24) and Arshdeep Singh (2/18), ensured the hosts sealed the match comfortably.

Despite the loss, Patel emphasised that the USA will take away valuable lessons as they push for a turnaround in their remaining group-stage encounters.