KOLKATA: Scotland registered their first win of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with a comprehensive 73-run victory over Italy at Eden Gardens on Monday, producing a commanding all-round performance.
Set a demanding target of 208, Italy were dismissed for 134 in 16.4 overs, undone by a superb spell from Michael Leask, who starred with the ball. Leask finished with outstanding figures of 4 for 17 from his four overs, leading Scotland’s bowling effort. Mark Watt claimed two wickets, while Brad Currie, Brad Wheal and Oliver Davidson chipped in with one apiece.
Ben Manenti offered resistance for Italy, top-scoring with 52 off 31 balls, which included five fours and a six. Harry Manenti added 37 from 25 deliveries, striking three sixes, while JJ Smuts contributed a brisk 22 off 11 balls. Anthony Mosca managed 11, but the remainder of the batting line-up failed to fire. Captain Wayne Madsen did not bat after being forced off earlier with a shoulder injury.
Strong start
Earlier, Scotland laid the foundation with a strong start at the top. George Munsey and Michael Jones guided the innings to 50 inside seven overs, maintaining a healthy scoring rate.
Munsey was in fine touch, bringing up his 14th T20I half-century and eventually scoring 84 off 54 balls, with 13 fours and two sixes, before Grant Stewart ended a 126-run opening stand.
Jones followed soon after for 37, leaving Scotland well placed at 136 for 2. Brandon McMullen and Richie Berrington then accelerated, pushing the total beyond 150. Berrington fell for 15, but McMullen remained unbeaten on a rapid 41 off 18 balls. Leask provided late impetus with a quick 22 off five deliveries, lifting Scotland to an imposing 207.
