West Indies fend off spirited Italy to extend unbeaten run

West Indies fend off spirited Italy to extend unbeaten run

West Indies defeated Italy by 42 runs in their final Group C fixture of the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, topping the group table.

Having already qualified for the Super 8s, the Caribbean side defended 165 to maintain their unbeaten streak, led by Shamar Joseph (4-30) and Matthew Forde (3-19) with the ball.

Italy won the toss and elected to field. Their bowlers removed Brandon King and Shimron Hetmyer early, but West Indies captain Shai Hope stabilized the innings with 75 off 46 deliveries, including six fours and four sixes. He shared a 64-run partnership with Roston Chase for the third wicket.

A middle-order stumble, triggered by Ben Manenti's twin strikes, reduced West Indies from 95/2 to 115/5. Sherfane Rutherford (24* off 15) and Matthew Forde (16* off 8) provided a late flourish to lift the total to 165/6.

In reply, Italy's chase never gained momentum. Forde struck early to remove Justin Mosca and Syed Naqvi, leaving Italy at 61/4 halfway through their innings. Despite resistance from JJ Smuts (24 off 27) and Ben Manenti (26 off 21), the required run rate escalated.

Shamar Joseph sealed the match with a sensational spell of 4 for 24. He also took four catches, achieving a unique feat of four wickets and four catches in a T20I match—a first in men's or women's T20Is.

Italy were bowled out for 123 in 18 overs. Shai Hope was named Player of the Match for his decisive half-century.

Brief scores: West Indies 165/6 in 20 overs (Shai Hope 75; Crishan Kalugamage 2-25, Ben Manenti 2-37) beat Italy 123 all out in 18 overs (Ben Manenti 26, JJ Smuts 24; Shamar Joseph 4-30, Matthew Forde 3-19) by 42 runs.