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England edge past Italy to reach Super 8s in T20 World Cup
England survived another tense encounter to defeat tournament newcomers Italy by 24 runs, securing their place in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026.
After posting 202-7, England looked vulnerable as Italy threatened an extraordinary upset. Ben Manenti’s explosive 60 off 28 balls brought Italy within striking distance, and Grant Stewart’s 45 from 25 deliveries kept the chase alive. With just 30 runs required from the final 12 balls, Sam Curran dismissed Stewart at short third, and Jamie Overton wrapped up the innings, leaving Italy all out for 178.
It was a nervy progression for England, who had earlier escaped with a last-ball win over Nepal, suffered a defeat to the West Indies, and narrowly defeated Scotland before facing Italy. Even their highest score in the tournament so far required late-order heroics. Will Jacks, coming in at number seven, smashed an unbeaten 53 from 21 balls — England’s fastest T20 World Cup fifty — to lift the team past 200.
Italy’s campaign ends with a final match against West Indies in Mumbai, while England now await their Super 8 opponents in Sri Lanka, where they will need stronger performances to contend.
Despite being the lowest-ranked side in the tournament, Italy impressed with their fearless batting, especially after Jofra Archer’s early breakthroughs. Manenti and Mosca rebuilt the innings with aggressive strokes, showing remarkable composure under pressure. Curran’s late bowling intervention proved decisive in halting Italy’s surge and securing England’s victory.
England’s top order struggled again, with notable contributions coming mainly from Jacks. Jos Buttler fell cheaply, while Phil Salt, Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook, and Curran all had starts but failed to convert them into big scores. Jacks’ 21-ball fifty, featuring four sixes, was crucial in providing the late impetus to surpass 200.
While England advance, questions remain about their consistency and ability to challenge in the later stages of the tournament. Their performances have been sufficient to progress, but not yet convincing in terms of championship credentials.
