Ranjane’s Heroics Power USA to Four-Wicket Win Over UAE
It was an eventful day of cricket in Dubai as the United States clinched a thrilling four-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 series. Played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on October 28, 2025, the match had everything—early drama, steady recoveries, and a cool-headed finish that sealed the game for the Americans with just five balls to spare.
The UAE had set a target of 212 runs after being sent in to bat first. Their innings didn’t get off to a great start, with both openers falling cheaply inside the first two overs. A few partnerships in the middle order gave them hope—especially from debutant Harshit Kaushik, who struck a half-century—but they never really found the momentum to push beyond 211 for 9. USA’s bowlers were disciplined throughout, led by captain Saurabh Netravalkar with figures of 3 for 28, while Shubham Ranjane continued his fine form, taking two wickets and keeping the run rate under control.
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Chasing 212, the USA batting lineup found themselves in early trouble. The top order collapsed to 22 for 3 within the first eight overs, with Junaid Siddique wreaking havoc by removing Smit Patel and Andries Gous cheaply. It looked like UAE might turn this into a major upset, but that’s when the experience of USA’s middle order came into play.
Captain Monank Patel and Milind Kumar steadied the innings with calm, patient half-centuries. They rotated the strike beautifully and punished loose deliveries, building vital partnerships that slowly tilted the game back in USA’s favor. Monank eventually fell for 50, and Milind top-scored with 71, showcasing a perfect blend of composure and timing under pressure.
But the real hero of the day was Shubham Ranjane. Having already impressed with the ball, he stood tall when the team needed him most. Coming in after the early collapse, Ranjane anchored the chase with an unbeaten 46 off 81 balls, guiding the team through tense moments when wickets kept tumbling at the other end. Alongside Harmeet Singh, who chipped in with a quick 14 not out, he ensured that the final moments were handled smoothly.
In the end, USA reached 213 for 6 in 49.1 overs, sealing their second consecutive win in the series. Ranjane was rightfully named Player of the Match for his all-round brilliance. For UAE, Junaid Siddique stood out with three wickets, but their inexperience in the field cost them crucial chances that could’ve turned the game.
This victory reinforced USA’s growing confidence in one-day internationals and highlighted the emergence of players like Ranjane and Milind as reliable performers. With this win, the USA team now looks well-poised to continue its strong run when they face Nepal next in Dubai.
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