KOLKATA – England delivered a power-packed batting display at Eden Gardens, posting 202/7 against Italy in their crucial Group C clash of the T20 World Cup 2026. The towering total sets a daunting 203-run target for Italy, as England eyes a spot in the Super 8 stage. With West Indies already through from the group, this victory could seal England’s progression.
The match unfolded on a lively Monday evening under the lights. Openers Jos Buttler and Phil Salt kicked off with a brisk 21-run stand in just 2.1 overs before Buttler fell for 3. Salt then anchored with Jacob Bethell, adding 33 runs for the second wicket. Salt’s aggressive 28 off 15 balls, featuring two sixes and two fours, showcased his intent.
Bethell chipped in with 23, but early trouble mounted as England slipped to 105/5. Enter Will Jacks, who turned the game on its head. Partnering Sam Curran, Jacks stitched a vital 54-run stand in 25 balls, propelling the score to 159. Curran departed for 25 off 19, laced with two maximums.
Jacks remained unbeaten on a blistering 53 off 22 deliveries, smashing four sixes and three fours. He capped his knock with a quick 35-run alliance alongside Jamie Overton, who added 15. Italy’s bowlers fought back, with Grant Stewart and Krishan Kalugamage claiming two wickets apiece, while JJ Smuts, Ali Hassan, and Ben Manenti took one each.
England’s lineup: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid.
Italy’s XI: Justin Mosca, Anthony Mosca, JJ Smuts, Harry Manenti (c), Ben Manenti, Marcus Campopiano, Grant Stewart, Gian Meade (wk), Jasprit Singh, Krishan Kalugamage, Ali Hassan.
As Italy faces the herculean task ahead, England’s explosive batting has put them in the driver’s seat. Can the underdogs chase down 203? The Eden Gardens crowd awaits an epic chase.