England defeated Italy by 24 runs in a high-scoring ICC Men’s T20 World Cup contest at the Eden Gardens on Monday, sealing their place in the Super 8 stage from Group C.
Set 203 for victory, Italy replied with 178 in 20 overs, falling short after a bold pursuit that nearly produced an upset against the former champions.
England, having elected to bat first, posted 202 for seven in their allotted overs. Will Jacks struck an unbeaten 53 from 22 balls, hitting three fours and four sixes, while Phil Salt made 28 and Tom Banton added 30. Sam Curran contributed 25 runs in the closing stages to lift the total beyond the 200 mark.
Italy’s reply suffered an early setback as Anthony Mosca and JJ Smuts departed with only one run on the board. Justin Mosca steadied the innings with 43 from 34 deliveries.
Ben Manenti then launched a fierce counter-attack, hammering 60 off 25 balls, including four boundaries and six sixes. Grant Stewart supported him with a brisk 45 from 23 balls as Italy crossed 150 in the 17th over.
However, regular wickets checked the chase. Jamie Overton claimed three for 18, while Sam Curran also secured three wickets. Italy were dismissed for 178 in the final over.
With this result, England advanced to the Super 8 alongside West Indies from Group C.
