The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 produced one other thrilling contest as England overcame a spirited problem from Italy within the twenty ninth Group C fixture at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. England’s 24-run victory was formed by explosive batting from Will Jacks and a decisive all-round show by Sam Curran.
England submit 202/7 after aggressive batting show
Opting to bat first, England posted an imposing 202 for 7 in 20 overs, sustaining a run price above ten per over. The innings noticed contributions from a number of batters, although it lacked a standard anchor.
Philip Salt set the tone with a brisk 28 off 15 balls earlier than falling to Ali Hasan. Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell chipped in, however wickets at common intervals prevented England from totally dominating the powerplay.
The center overs noticed Tom Banton and Harry Brook try to consolidate, however Italy’s bowlers struck again to maintain the competition alive. Nonetheless, the turning level arrived when Will Jacks unleashed a late assault. Remaining unbeaten on 53 off simply 22 deliveries, Jacks hammered boundaries at will, ending with a staggering strike price above 240. His fearless hitting within the dying overs ensured England crossed the 200-run mark.
21-ball fifty for Will Jacks 🔥#ENGvITA #WillJacks #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/9bjL8VcJjO
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 16, 2026
Sam Curran additionally performed a significant position with the bat, contributing a quickfire 25 off 19 balls earlier than being dismissed.
Italy reply with combating spirit
Chasing 203, Italy confirmed exceptional resilience. After early setbacks, Justin Mosca anchored the innings with a well-crafted 43. Nonetheless, the actual momentum shift got here by Ben Manenti’s explosive 60 off 25 balls, which introduced Italy firmly again into the sport.
Grant Stewart additional intensified the chase with a blistering 45 off 23 deliveries, holding hopes alive deep into the innings. At one stage, Italy appeared poised for an upset, particularly after crossing 130 within the fifteenth over.
When stress mounted, Curran stepped up. The left-arm pacer delivered a decisive spell, claiming three essential wickets for 22 runs in his three overs.
Curran eliminated Grant Stewart at a vital juncture, halting Italy’s cost. He additionally accounted for Marcus Campopiano and Gian Meade, triggering a collapse that derailed Italy’s chase.
Jamie Overton and Jofra Archer supported with well timed breakthroughs, but it surely was Curran’s management below stress that swung the match decisively in England’s favour. Italy received all-out for 178 on the final ball of their innings.
With this win, England have reached the Tremendous 8 stage of the competitors.
England are by to the Tremendous Eights ⚡#ENGvsITA #T20WorldCup2026 pic.twitter.com/kHOwkZQ2Ui
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 16, 2026
