England secured their place in the Super 8 stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 after defeating Italy by 24 runs in a tense Group C encounter at the Eden Gardens in India.
The Harry Brook-led side managed 202 for 7 after a late flurry of boundaries, with Will Jacks producing the fastest half-century for England in T20 World Cup history, scoring 53 not out.
England top order once again faltered, stumbling to 105 for 5 before Jacks arrived, while Sam Curran and Jamie Overton supported him to add 78 runs in the final five overs of the innings.
Italy Push England to the Limit
Italy began their chase poorly, losing two quick wickets in the first over, but Ben Manenti and Grant Stewart hit 11 sixes between them to keep their side competitive against the strong bowling.
Manenti and Justin Mosca added 92 runs for the fourth wicket to stabilize Italy’s innings, but both fell in quick succession during a collapse that allowed England to regain control.
The late hitting from Stewart, including consecutive sixes in an Adil Rashid over, kept Italy in the hunt, requiring 30 runs off the final two overs in a thrilling finish.
Key Performances and Final Overs
Jamie Overton bowled a double-wicket maiden in the final over, dismissing Jaspreet Singh and Ali Hasan, ensuring England won by 24 runs and confirmed their progress to Sri Lanka for the next stage.
Jofra Archer struck early in Italy’s innings, removing two crucial wickets in his first over, while Sam Curran’s double strike in the middle overs curtailed Italy’s lower-order resistance effectively.
Italy finished with their highest T20I chase score, showing resilience despite England’s late dominance, while Harry Brook’s team will need stronger performances in the Super 8 stage.
