A record-breaking batting display by Scotland turned into a nightmare for Italy in Kolkata on February 9, during the T20 World Cup 2026 regional qualifiers. Scotland amassed 207-4, only for Italy to crumble by 73 runs, their tail folding in an astonishing 17-ball blitz that saw the last five wickets vanish.
Italy’s pursuit of 208 unraveled immediately, with Justin Mosca out on ball one. Without captain Wayne Madsen due to injury, the batting lineup lacked leadership and stability. Brothers Harry and Ben Manenti mounted a rearguard action—Harry’s 37 (25 balls, 3 sixes, 1 four) complementing Ben’s stylish 52 (31 balls, 5 fours, 1 six)—adding 73 runs for the fourth wicket.
Scotland’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Michael Leask’s 4-17, pounced mercilessly. Mark Watt (2-24) and part-timers Brad Currie, Brad Wheel, and Oliver Davidson (1 each) cleaned up the rest.
Scotland’s innings featured George Munsey’s half-century fireworks: 84 off 54 with 13 boundaries and two big hits. Michael Jones made 37, while finishers Brandon McMullen (41* with four sixes in 18 balls) and Leask (22* off 5) ensured a lofty total despite losing the toss.
Leask walked away with Player of the Match honors for his match-winning contributions. This defeat exposes Italy’s vulnerabilities, contrasting sharply with Scotland’s clinical execution in their tournament opener.