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Scotland claimed their first win in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, defeating Italy by 73 runs on Monday at Eden Gardens, Mumbai, with a commanding all round performance.
Chasing a target of 208, Italy were bowled out for 134 in 16.4 overs, with Michael Leask delivering a brilliant spell that secured 4 wickets for just 17 runs in their opening game.
Ben Manenti top scored for Italy with 52 off 31 balls, hitting 5 fours and 1 six, while Harry Manenti added 37 from 25 deliveries, including 1 four and 3 sixes.
JJ Smuts contributed 22 runs off 11 balls, striking 2 fours and 2 sixes, while Anthony Mosca scored 11, but the rest of Italy’s batting lineup struggled to make an impact.
Italy’s captain Wayne Madsen did not bat after being ruled out mid match with a shoulder injury, leaving the team further weakened against Scotland’s disciplined bowling attack.
Michael Leask spearheaded Scotland’s bowling, supported by Mark Watt, who picked up 2 wickets, while Brad Currie, Brad Wheal, and Oliver Davidson claimed 1 wicket each for crucial breakthroughs.
Batting first, Scotland started aggressively, with their opening pair setting a brisk pace and ensuring the team maintained a commanding position during the initial overs against debutant Italy.
George Munsey and Michael Jones played vital roles, helping Scotland reach 50 runs by the 7th over, applying early pressure on Italy’s bowlers with consistent scoring.
Munsey produced his 14th T20I fifty, while Jones’ steady contributions kept Scotland ahead; Munsey’s innings ended at 84 off 54 balls, featuring 13 fours and 2 sixes, broken by Grant Stewart.
Scotland lost their second wicket immediately after when JJ Smuts dismissed Michael Jones, who scored 37 off 30 balls, leaving the side at 136-2 in the 14.5th over of the innings.
Brandon McMullen and Richie Berrington then stabilized the innings with aggressive hitting, guiding Scotland past 150 runs with ease before Ali Hasan claimed Berrington’s wicket for 15 off 11 deliveries.
In the final overs, Scotland lost 2 more wickets: Tom Bruce fell for 1 off 2 balls to Thomas Draca, while McMullen remained unbeaten on 41 off 18 balls, hitting four sixes.
Michael Leask finished strongly with a quick cameo of 22 runs off 5 balls, including 2 fours and 2 sixes, ensuring Scotland posted a formidable total and claimed a convincing victory.
