The West Indies completed an unbeaten run in the group stages of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, achieving a 42-run victory over Italy, who were making their debut in the tournament, at the historic Eden Gardens on Thursday. With this win, the West Indies joined India and South Africa as the only teams to have won all their group matches while moving into the Super 8s.

Entering the match as significant frontrunners, the West Indies faced a determined Italian squad that made them work hard for runs after winning the toss and opting to bat first. The match proved challenging for the West Indies, particularly as the pitch provided spin-friendly conditions. Early setbacks saw opener Brandon King dismissed for just 4 runs, followed by Shimron Hetmyer, who managed only 1. This left the West Indies looking to stabilise their innings during the power-play.

West Indies Innings

West Indies captain Shai Hope played a pivotal role in stabilising the team’s performance, delivering a commanding innings that featured a mix of caution and aggression. Hope scored 75 runs off 46 balls, including six fours and four sixes. He received support from Roston Chase, who contributed 24 runs, as well as a strong finish from Sherfane Rutherford (24*) and Matthew Forde (16*), leading the West Indies to set a total of 165 runs for 6 wickets at the end of their 20 overs.

On the bowling front for Italy, Crishan Kalugamage emerged as the standout bowler, claiming the key wicket of Shai Hope and finishing with impressive figures of 2 wickets for 25 runs in his 4 overs.

Italy’s Innings

In pursuit of the target of 166 runs, Italy faced an early challenge with the dismissal of Justin Mosca. Anthony Mosca briefly lifted Italy’s spirits by hitting Akeal Hosein for two sixes before losing his wicket in the same over, which shifted the momentum back to the West Indies. Gudakesh Motie played a critical role in the middle overs by taking out the dangerous JJ Smuts, who scored 24, and later dismissing Ben Manenti, who managed 26 runs. This propelled the West Indies further ahead as Italy’s middle order faltered under mounting pressure.

Shamar Joseph and Matthew Forde were instrumental in controlling Italy’s overall scoring, with Joseph claiming 4 wickets for 30 runs and Forde taking 3 wickets for just 19 runs. Consequently, Italy was bowled out for a total of 123 runs in 18 overs.

Despite the defeat, Italy can take pride in their competitive spirit against one of the most formidable teams in T20 cricket. With this substantial win, the West Indies secured their place in the Super 8 stage with a perfect record of four wins from four matches, boosting their confidence considerably. Having already triumphed over established teams such as England earlier in the tournament, the West Indies appear to be strong contenders for their third T20 World Cup title.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share