Will Jacks produced a blistering all-round display as England overcame a determined Italian resistance to register a 24-run victory and book their place in the Super Eights of the T20 World Cup 2026. The Group C clash at Eden Gardens saw the two-time champions flex their muscle, though not without being tested by the spirited debutants. After electing to bat, England rode on Jacks’ sensational unbeaten 53 off just 22 deliveries, an explosive knock studded with four sixes and three boundaries, to post 202 for 7 — their first 200-plus total of the tournament. His late onslaught provided the finishing kick that lifted England beyond the 200-mark and put Italy under significant pressure.
Italy, however, refused to back down. Ben Manenti launched a breathtaking counterattack, smashing 60 off 25 balls to revive the chase after a disastrous start. A late cameo from Grant Stewart (45 off 23) further threatened to turn the tide, as Italy briefly dared to dream of a famous upset. Earlier, England’s pace spearhead Jofra Archer set the tone with a fiery opening spell, clocking 146kph and reducing Italy to 1/2 in the first over, which soon became 22/3. Anthony Mosca fell first ball, while JJ Smuts edged to slip, and Harry Manenti followed shortly after as England tightened their grip. Despite the late scare, England’s bowlers held firm. Sam Curran (3/22) and Jamie Overton (3/18) shared six wickets to restrict Italy to 178 all out, sealing a hard-fought but deserved win.
