He ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 produced another thrilling match as England overcame a spirited challenge from Italy in the 29th Group C match at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. England’s 24-run victory was marked by the explosive batting of jacks and a decisive and complete performance of Sam Curran.
England post 202/7 after aggressive batting display
Opting to bat first, England posted a commanding 202 for 7 in 20 overs, maintaining a run rate of over ten per over. The innings featured contributions from multiple batsmen, although they lacked a traditional anchor.
Philip Salt set the tone with a spirited 28 off 15 balls before falling to Ali Hasan. Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell contributed but wickets at regular intervals prevented England from completely dominating the powerplay.
In the middle overs, Tom Banton and Harry Brook tried to consolidate but Italy’s bowlers counter-attacked to keep the contest alive. However, the turning point came when Will Jacks unleashed a late attack. Remaining unbeaten on 53 off just 22 deliveries, Jacks smashed boundaries at will, finishing with a staggering strike rate of over 240. His fearless knock in the death overs ensured England crossed the 200-run mark.
21 ball fifty for Will Jacks 🔥#ESPvITA #WillJacks #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/9bjL8VcJjO
– CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 16, 2026
Sam Curran also played a vital role with the bat, contributing 25 off 19 balls before being dismissed.
Also READ: Janhvi Kapoor, Ajay Devgn and other Bollywood celebrities react to India’s emphatic victory over Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2026
Italy responds with fighting spirit
Chasing 203, Italy showed remarkable resilience. After early setbacks, Justin Mosca anchored the innings with a well-crafted 43. However, the real shift in momentum came through Ben Manenti’s explosive 25-ball 60, which brought Italy firmly back into the game.
Grant Stewart further intensified the chase with a stunning 45 off 23 deliveries, keeping hopes alive in the innings. At one point, Italy looked set for an upset, especially after crossing 130 in the 15th over.
As the pressure mounted, Curran stepped forward. The left-arm pacer had a decisive spell, claiming three important wickets for 22 runs in his three overs.
Curran dismissed Grant Stewart at a critical moment, stopping Italy’s charge. He also accounted for Marcus Campopiano and Gian Meade, leading to a collapse that derailed Italy’s chase.
Jamie Overton and Jofra Archer supported with timely breakthroughs, but it was Curran’s control under pressure that swung the match decisively in England’s favour. Italy did everything possible for 178 on the last ball of his innings.
With this victory, England has reached the Super 8 phase of the competition.
England has reached the Super Eights ⚡#ESPvsITA #T20WorldCup2026 pic.twitter.com/kHOwkZQ2Ui
– CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 16, 2026
Also WATCH: Frustrated Pakistan fans smash TV screen after humiliating defeat against India in T20 World Cup 2026
