Italy’s T20 World Cup debut ends with big loss against Scotland

Published on Tuesday, 10 February 2026 at 12:24 am

Kolkata, India – Italy’s first-ever appearance at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup turned into a harsh lesson on cricket’s biggest stage as Scotland cantered to a 73-run victory at Eden Gardens on Monday.

Batting first after Italy won the toss and elected to field, Scotland amassed 207-4 – the tournament’s highest total so far – powered by a blistering 84 from opener George Munsey and late-order fireworks from Michael Leask, who smashed two fours and two sixes in the final five deliveries to finish unbeaten on 22 off five balls. Munsey dominated a 126-run opening stand with Michael Jones (37), reaching his half-century in 30 balls and striking 13 fours and two sixes before holing out to long-on off Grant Stewart.

Italy’s chase of 208 never gained momentum. Early wickets left them reeling at 40-3, and although brothers Ben and Harry Manenti staged a spirited fourth-wicket partnership of 73, the innings unraveled once Harry departed for 37 and Ben followed for a 31-ball 52. From 113-3, Italy lost their last seven wickets for 21 runs, bowled out for 134 in 16.4 overs. Leask compounded Italian woes, claiming 4-17 with his off-spin.

Compounding Italy’s problems, captain Wayne Madsen could not bat after sustaining a serious shoulder injury while fielding in the fourth over. Madsen, who earlier achieved the rare feat of playing World Cups in two sports for two countries—field hockey for South Africa and now cricket for Italy—left the field in visible pain and watched the remainder of the contest from the dugout.

Scotland skipper Richie Berrington praised his side’s response after an opening-match defeat to the West Indies. “Really pleased to get our first win. In the end, it was a comprehensive win, but we had to work hard for it,” he said. “Early wickets were key, and it put us on the front foot.”

The result lifts Scotland off the foot of Group C, while Italy, the lowest-ranked team among the competition’s 20 entrants, must regroup quickly to keep their maiden campaign alive.