USA's Aaron Jones Joins Gayle, Yuvraj In Unique Six-Hitting Feat

Jones celebrating his half-century in the tournament opener. (X)Jones celebrating his half-century in the tournament opener. (X)

The 2024 T20 World Cup began with a thrilling match as co-hosts USA played their first-ever ICC World Cup game, defeating Canada by seven wickets in the tournament opener.

Chasing their highest-ever target in T20I history, the home team was in a bit of pressure. Set a daunting 195, USA had a shaky start with openers Steven Taylor (0) and Monank Patel (16) departing early. 

However, Andries Gous (65) and Aaron Jones (94*) turned the game around with a big 131-run partnership for the third wicket. Gous initially played cautiously before accelerating, while Jones attacked the bowlers from the outset.

Aaron Jones shatters multiple records

The hosts clinched victory thanks to a spectacular, unbeaten 94 off just 40 balls by Aaron Jones, reaching their target with 14 balls to spare. Jones' explosive innings set him apart, breaking multiple records along the way. Notably, he hit 10 sixes, the second-highest number in a World Cup innings. 

This feat is only surpassed by Chris Gayle, who smashed 11 sixes against England in the 2016 edition in Mumbai. Gayle also hit 10 sixes during his first T20I century in the 2007 World Cup. South Africa’s Rilee Rossouw ranks third, having hit eight sixes against Bangladesh in the 2022 edition in Sydney. 

Yuvraj Singh famously hit six sixes in one over, placing him fourth on the list. Now, the USA vice-captain has joined an elite group, leapfrogging several notable southpaws.

Earlier in the match, Canada set a competitive total of 194/5, thanks to solid contributions from their batsmen.

However, their efforts were overshadowed by Aaron Jones' spectacular innings, ensuring a memorable victory for the USA.