In a thrilling encounter at Eden Gardens, England secured their spot in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 with a commanding 24-run victory over Italy on Monday. This marked their third win in the tournament, propelling them ahead in Group C alongside West Indies, who have also qualified.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, England posted a formidable 202 for 7 in their 20 overs. The innings got off to a shaky start with Philip Salt and Jos Buttler adding just 21 runs for the first wicket. Buttler departed for a duck after facing a few balls, while Salt contributed a steady 28.
The middle order crumbled to 105 for 5, but Will Jacks and Sam Curran staged a crucial rescue act. Their 54-run partnership off 25 balls turned the tide. Jacks remained unbeaten on 53 from 22 balls, smashing 4 sixes and 3 fours, while Curran added 25 off 19. Italy’s Grant Stewart and Krishan Kalugamage picked up 2 wickets each.
Chasing 203, Italy collapsed to 178 all out. They lost 3 quick wickets for just 22 runs early on. Justin Mosca and Ben Manenti then fought back with a 92-run stand for the fourth wicket off 48 balls, pushing the score to 114. Manenti’s explosive 60 off 25 balls, including 6 sixes and 4 fours, gave them hope.
Mosca partnered with Stewart for another 21 runs, but wickets tumbled after reaching 135 for 5. Stewart’s late 45 and a quick 40-run stand with Jasprit Singh briefly revived chances, but England struck back. Sam Curran and Jamie Overton claimed 3 wickets each, Jofra Archer took 2, with Will Jacks and Adil Rashid grabbing one apiece.
England’s bowlers sealed the deal, ensuring their progression. This win underscores their dominance and sets up exciting Super 8 clashes ahead.