Harry Brook’s T20 England side have come second in their group stage, progressing through to the Super 8’s.
England beat Italy by 24 runs, winning the toss and electing to bat first where they put up a total of 202/7 from their 20 overs.
It was a solid batting performance, headlined by Will Jacks making a rapid 53 not out, striking at over 240. Sam Curran, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell and Phil Salt were all able to contribute scores of 23 plus. It was England best batting performance in the tournament to date, but one to be expected against Italy in their tournament debut.
Jofra Archer made a storming start to England’s defence of 203, picking up the two wickets of Anthony Mosca and JJ Smuts in the first over. Jamie Overton continued England’s fine start when dismissing Italian Captain Harry Manenti, caught behind, putting Italy at 3-22.
Jofra Archer is on fire as England make a blistering start ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/0YMgLEjt0w
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) February 16, 2026
The game looked to be slipping away from Italy after the powerplay, however a crucial fourth wicket partnership saw scores of 43 for Justin Mosca and 60 off just 25 deliveries for Ben Manenti.
At the end of the 12th over spinner Jacks was able to put an end to B Manenti’s aggressive counter attack. An attempted sweep from a round the wicket ball outside off stump by Jacks went straight up in the air to Banton at mid off.
Grant Stewart continued Italy’s spirited fightback, scoring a quick 45 runs, but his lower order teammates were unable to provide any support around him. With runs needed at the death Stewart departed when trying to take on Curran.
Italy required 25 runs from the final over to win the match. However, at eight down their real lack of batting depth shone through. Overton bowled a double wicket maiden, taking Italy’s final wicket in the last ball of the game, leaving them a valiant 178 all out against the 2022 T20 World Cup Champions.
Despite being confirmed out of the tournament with one game to go, Italy have far surpassed expectations, taking England close and scoring an unexpected win over Nepal.
England will play their Super 8 matches in Sri Lanka, their opponents are yet to be confirmed with games from other groups taking place over the coming days.
