England Survive Italy Scare as Manenti’s Blitz Rocks T20 World Cup
England are through to the Super Eights, but not without a serious scare from a fearless Italian side that nearly pulled off one of the biggest shocks of the T20 World Cup.
At Eden Gardens in Kolkata, England posted a massive 202 for 7 against the Italy national cricket team in this crucial Group C clash. On paper, that total should have been enough to seal the deal comfortably. But cricket is never played on paper and Italy made sure of that.
The England cricket team had early stumbles with the bat, losing key wickets in the powerplay. It was Will Jacks who changed the tempo. His explosive unbeaten 53 off just 22 balls shifted momentum late in the innings. Alongside useful cameos from Sam Curran and Jamie Overton, England powered past the 200 mark, registering one of their highest totals in T20 World Cup history.
But then came the twist.
Also Read:- Family Day 2026 in Toronto: What’s Open, What’s Closed and What You Need to Know
- 170,000 Students Launch Massive Covid Compensation Battle Against UK Universities
Italy were rocked early, reduced to 1 for 2 in the opening over. It looked like the contest might end quickly. Instead, Ben Manenti produced a breathtaking counterattack. His 60 off just 25 balls, packed with towering sixes, stunned the crowd and rattled England’s bowlers. Along with Grant Stewart, who smashed 45 from 23 deliveries, Italy clawed their way back into the contest.
At one stage, England’s grip on the match looked fragile. Italy needed quick runs and they kept swinging. The pressure was real. The defending champions were being tested by a so-called underdog.
But big teams find a way. Sam Curran delivered a masterclass at the death, finishing with three wickets and Jamie Overton backed him up with three of his own. Italy were eventually bowled out for 178, handing England a 24-run win.
So what does this mean in the standings?
England advance from Group C into the Super Eights of the T20 World Cup 2026. Italy, despite the loss, have sent a message to the cricketing world. Associate nations are no longer here just to participate. They are here to compete.
For England, the result secures progression. But questions remain about consistency and composure under pressure. The next stage will not be forgiving.
For Italy, this performance could mark a turning point. Competitive cricket against full-member nations accelerates growth, builds belief and reshapes global perceptions of the game.
The tournament is heating up and the margins are getting thinner. Stay with us for complete coverage of the T20 World Cup as the road to the title intensifies.
Read More:
0 Comments