Italy’s long-awaited T20 World Cup debut ends with big defeat against Scotland

KOLKATA, India — Forty-five years after Italy’s cricket federation was founded, the Azzurri finally stepped onto the global stage on Monday, only to see their dream opener unravel in a 73-run loss to Scotland at Eden Gardens. Captain Wayne Madsen’s tournament lasted barely six overs; the 37-year-old dislocated his left shoulder diving for a catch at mid-wicket and took no further part in the Group C contest.

Without their leader, Italy were set a daunting 208 to win after George Munsey’s pyrotechnics carried the Scots to 207-4 — the highest total ever recorded by an associate nation in T20 World Cup history. Munsey cracked 13 fours and two sixes in a 54-ball 84, sharing a tournament-best opening stand of 126 with Michael Jones (37). A late flurry from Brandon McMullen (41 off 18) and Michael Leask (22* off 5) lifted Scotland past the 200-mark for the first time in the competition.

Italy’s reply began in nightmare fashion when Munsey, now prowling the in-field, snared a sharp low catch at point to remove Justin Mosca off the first ball. Benjamin Manenti counter-attacked brilliantly, striking 52 from 31 deliveries alongside brother Harry (37) in a 73-run partnership that briefly hinted at a miracle chase. Both siblings fell in successive overs, however, and the last six wickets tumbled for 21 runs as Leask spun through the middle order to finish with 4-17. Italy were bowled out for 137 in 16.4 overs.

“I imagine everyone will be flat in the dressing room and disappointed,” vice-captain Harry Manenti admitted. “We wanted to show the world what we have. We get another chance in a few days’ time and hopefully we can bounce back.”

The result earns Scotland its first points of the tournament after an opening loss to the West Indies, while Italy must regroup quickly to keep their maiden campaign alive.