Rain Stops Play: USA Progress to Super 8's After Game Abandoned Against Ireland

The USA qualified for the Super 8s stage of the T20 World Cup after their match against Ireland in Florida was washed out at Lauderhill, Florida.

Tropical storms and flooding had caused a waterlogged outfield that did not dry in time despite the best efforts of ground staff.

Sri Lanka vs. Nepal was also washed out at the same venue on Wednesday, and India is scheduled to take on Canada there on Saturday. Still, a heavy storm after the abandonment left the outfield in poor condition, putting that game in doubt.

Co-hosts USA join India in reaching the next round, eliminating Ireland, Canada, and Pakistan.

Australia, West Indies, Afghanistan, and South Africa have also qualified from the other groups.

It is a remarkable achievement for the USA, ranked 18th in the world and playing in their first World Cup. They only played their first T20 international in 2019 and were not the bookies favourite by a large margin.

The USA beat Canada in a high-scoring opener, shocked an experienced Pakistan in a super over, and fought hard against a seasoned India.

Ireland had a disappointing tournament, losing their two preceding group matches but have a chance for a consolation win against Pakistan on Sunday.

Irish cricket commentator Andrew Leonard noted the disappointment in the Irish camp, citing poor performances as a factor in their early exit.

The Super 8s start on Wednesday, 19 June, with the USA facing South Africa in Antigua. As a result, the USA has also qualified for the 2026 T20 World Cup by reaching the last eight.