West Indies Crush Italy By 42 Runs, Stay Unbeaten Ahead of Super 8 Stage

West Indies secured a commanding 42-run victory over Italy in their final Group C match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens, finishing the group stage unbeaten with four wins from four games. Captain Shai Hope's anchoring 75 off 46 balls powered the Caribbean side to a competitive 165/6 after Italy opted to field first in this dead rubber, setting the stage for a dominant bowling display that sealed their progression to the Super 8 stage.

Electing to bat, West Indies faced early setbacks with Brandon King and Shimron Hetmyer departing cheaply, but Hope steadied the innings with elegant strokeplay, including six fours and four sixes. His mature knock provided the backbone as the middle order struggled against Italy's spinners, particularly Crishan Kalugamage (2/25) and Ben Manenti (2/37), who applied pressure in the middle overs. Sherfane Rutherford contributed a quick unbeaten 24 towards the end, ensuring a defendable total despite regular wickets falling around Hope, who was dismissed for 75 in the 16th over.

Italy's chase unraveled quickly against West Indies' pace attack. Openers Justin Mosca and Anthony Mosca provided some resistance early, but Matthew Forde struck twice in the powerplay to remove key batsmen and leave Italy at 37/3 after six overs. Shamar Joseph then took center stage with a remarkable performance, claiming 4/30 while also taking four catches in the field—a rare all-round contribution that dismantled the Italian batting lineup. Gudakesh Motie chipped in with 2/24 as Italy were bundled out for 123 in 18 overs.

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The win highlighted West Indies' depth and form heading into the Super 8, where they enter as one of the tournament favorites with an impeccable record. Hope, named Player of the Match, reflected on his innings, noting the good batting surface but expressing a desire to have accelerated more at the death. Italy, making their T20 World Cup debut, showed competitiveness throughout the group stage despite the loss, with their bowlers impressing before the batting faltered under pressure.

This result underscores the growing competitiveness in global cricket, as associate nations like Italy challenge full members, while West Indies' seamless blend of experience and youth positions them strongly for deeper tournament success. The match served as a tune-up for the Super 8, with West Indies maintaining momentum and confidence.

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