West Indies extend unbeaten run by defeating Italy

At Kolkata’s historic Eden Gardens, the West Indies cemented their dominance in Group C of the 2026 T20 World Cup, defeating Italy by 42 runs. Having previously secured a Super 8s spot, the Caribbean squad defended 165 to remain unbeaten, aided by superb bowling from Shamar Joseph and Matthew Forde.

Italy elected to field, quickly removing openers, yet Captain Shai Hope anchored the innings with a commanding 75. Despite a mid-innings wobble caused by Ben Manenti, late hitting from Sherfane Rutherford pushed the score to a competitive total. Italy’s chase never ignited against clinical bowling. Forde’s early strikes reduced them to 61 for 4, and despite resistance from Smuts and Manenti, the target proved elusive. Joseph effectively ended the contest, taking four wickets and a record-breaking four catches. Italy collapsed for 123, while Hope earned Player of the Match honors as the West Indies advanced, looking like formidable title contenders.