West Indies beat Italy by 42 runs in the 37th Match, Group C, at the Eden Gardens on February 19, 2026. West Indies scored 165-6 in 20 overs before bowling Italy out for 123 in 18 overs. Shai Hope’s composed 75 and Shamar Joseph’s incisive spell ensured a decisive result in front of a vibrant Kolkata crowd.
Match Summary
West Indies opted to bat first on a surface offering consistent bounce. The openers began cautiously before accelerating in the powerplay, reaching 47-1 after six overs.
Hope anchored the innings with measured stroke play. His placement through cover and mid-wicket kept the scoreboard ticking. Italy’s bowlers applied pressure in the middle overs with disciplined lines, briefly creating a lull in scoring.
However, West Indies finished with purpose. The final four overs produced a crucial surge, pushing the total to 165-6. That late momentum proved pivotal.
Italy’s reply began with intent. Early boundaries suggested belief, but once the first wicket fell, the innings lost rhythm. Joseph’s sharp spell dismantled the middle order, claiming key wickets in quick succession.
Italy attempted recovery through short partnerships, yet consistent breakthroughs prevented consolidation. The innings closed at 123 in 18 overs, sealing a comprehensive 42-run victory for West Indies.
Key Performances
West Indies
- Shai Hope: 75 (46)
- Shamar Joseph: 4/30
- Matthew Forde: 3/19
Hope’s innings was both fluent and controlled, setting a stable platform. Joseph’s spell was clinical and decisive, extracting pace and bounce at crucial junctures.
Italy
- Benjamin Manenti: 26 (21)
- Early positive intent in powerplay
Italy showed resilience but could not withstand sustained pressure.
Turning Point of the Match
The turning point came when Joseph struck twice in one over during Italy’s chase. That dramatic shift transformed a competitive situation into a steep challenge.
Earlier, West Indies’ authoritative finish with the bat created a cushion that intensified scoreboard pressure.
Full Scorecard / Key Statistics
West Indies – 165/6 (20 overs)
- Top scorer: 75 (46)
- Death overs boost lifted total beyond 160
Italy – 123 all out (18 overs)
- Top scorer: 26 (21)
- Partnerships above 40: None
Bowling Highlights (West Indies)
- Joseph: 4 wickets
- Forde: 3 wickets
Match Result: West Indies won by 42 runs.
What This Means
The victory strengthens West Indies’ standing in Group C and improves net run rate. The balanced performance reflects growing confidence within the squad.
For Italy, the loss underscores the importance of sustaining partnerships against high-calibre attacks.
What’s Next
West Indies continue their Group C campaign with renewed momentum. Italy will aim to regroup and produce a more cohesive display in their next fixture.