A day that will live long in cricket memory unfolded at Eden Gardens as Shamar Joseph orchestrated Italy’s downfall in ruthless fashion. The West Indies tearaway not only snared 4/30 but also took four screamers, becoming the first in T20 World Cup history to achieve this in a single match—a record absent from even women’s annals.
Joseph’s victims off his bowling: Italy captain Harry Manenti, Grant Stewart, Thomas Draca, and Ali Hassan, all gloved or edged to his safe hands. His fielding prowess shone brighter with catches of Anthony Mosca, Syed Nakvi, JJ Smuts, and Gian Meade.
West Indies set a challenging 165/6 after being put in. Hope’s captain’s knock of 75 from 46 deliveries, laced with fours and sixes, set the tone. Chase (24) and Rutherford (24) provided stability. Italy’s bowlers, led by Manenti and Kalugamage (2 each), restricted the flow but couldn’t stem the tide.
Italy’s batsmen faltered spectacularly, all out for 123 in 18 overs. Stand-in efforts from Manenti (26), Smuts (24), and Mosca (19) weren’t enough. Forde (3 wickets), Motie (2), and Hussain (1) joined the party.
With a flawless group stage, West Indies march into Super 8s facing Zimbabwe, South Africa, and India. Italy departs with one consolation victory against Nepal.