KOLKATA: Scotland made a powerful statement in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with a resounding 73-run victory over debutants Italy at Eden Gardens on Monday. The win, Scotland’s first of the tournament, was powered by an all-round performance spearheaded by Michael Leask.
Electing to bat first, Scotland posted a formidable total of 207 runs, thanks to a commanding opening partnership between George Munsey and Michael Jones. The pair laid the foundation with an aggressive approach, taking the Italian bowlers to task. Munsey played a brilliant knock of 84 off 54 balls, marking his 14th T20I half-century, while Jones contributed a steady 37 off 30 deliveries. Their 126-run stand in just over 14 overs put Scotland in a strong position.
After the dismissal of Jones by JJ Smuts, Scotland faced brief resistance, but Brandon McMullen and Richie Berrington accelerated the innings with some aggressive stroke play. McMullen remained unbeaten on 41 off 18 balls, hitting four towering sixes, while Berrington added 15 runs before being dismissed. Michael Leask finished the innings in style, smashing 22 off only five balls, including two fours and two sixes, helping Scotland cross the 200-run mark.
In response, Italy struggled to chase down the imposing target. The Scottish bowlers maintained relentless pressure, with Michael Leask producing a match-winning spell of 4 for 17 in his four overs. Mark Watt supported with two crucial wickets, while Brad Currie, Brad Wheal, and Oliver Davidson picked up one wicket each, leaving the Italian lineup reeling.
Despite some resistance from Ben Manenti, who top-scored with a fighting 52 off 31 balls, Italy’s innings faltered. Harry Manenti contributed a quick 37 from 25 deliveries, including three sixes, and JJ Smuts added 22 off just 11 balls. Anthony Mosca managed 11 runs, but the remainder of the batting order failed to make an impact. Skipper Wayne Madsen was forced to sit out after sustaining a shoulder injury, leaving Italy short-handed.
Scotland’s comprehensive performance highlighted their batting depth and bowling efficiency, providing a strong morale boost ahead of the tournament. The victory not only secures their first points in T20 World Cup 2026 but also demonstrates the team’s potential to compete with higher-ranked opponents.
With this win, Scotland now looks forward to their upcoming fixtures with confidence, aiming to build momentum and solidify their standing in the tournament. Italy, meanwhile, will have to regroup quickly and address both batting and bowling shortcomings if they are to make a mark in their maiden T20 World Cup campaign.
Read More: Italy Captain Madsen Out vs Scotland – T20 WC 2026
