England confirmed their place in the next stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 with a tense 24 run win over Italy at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. After posting 202 for 7, England restricted Italy to 178 to secure qualification from Group C.
Despite the victory, England were pushed hard by a determined Italy side and had to work until the final over to seal the result.
Jack’s Rescue Powers England To 202
After winning the toss, England chose to bat first but struggled in the middle overs. Jos Buttler and Phil Salt fell early again, while Jacob Bethell and captain Harry Brook could not convert their starts.
When Tom Banton was dismissed, England were 105 for 5 and in danger of finishing below 180.
Will Jacks changed the momentum of the innings. Batting at number seven, he played an aggressive knock of 53 not out and reached his half-century at a rapid pace. He struck powerful sixes in the final overs and lifted England’s total beyond 200.
Sam Curran added useful runs while Jamie Overton supported late in the innings as England scored 78 runs in the last five overs to finish on 202 for 7.
Manenti And Stewart Lead Italy’s Fightback
Italy made a poor start to the chase and were reduced to 22 for 3. Jofra Archer struck early, but Ben Manenti counterattacked with confidence.
Manenti scored 60 and shared a 92-run partnership with Justin Mosca, who made 43. The pair kept Italy in the contest and forced England to rethink their bowling plans.
Grant Stewart added 45 and hit multiple sixes to take the game deep. At one stage, Italy needed 30 runs from the final two overs and still had hope.
However, Sam Curran removed Stewart at a crucial moment, and Jamie Overton finished with three wickets to close out the match. Curran also claimed three wickets as Italy were bowled out for 178.
England move to the Super Eight stage but will need stronger performances in the future. Italy impressed with their fearless batting display and showed they can compete with higher-ranked teams on the big stage.
