Captain Shai Hope delivered a captain’s knock of 75 runs from 46 balls, propelling West Indies to 165 for 6 in their T20 World Cup 2026 match against Italy at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens.
A disastrous start saw West Indies at 31 for 2 after losing openers King and Hetmyer. Hope’s resilience shone through in a 64-run alliance with Chase (24 off 25), stabilizing the innings.
Hope’s innings, laced with 6 boundaries and 4 maximums, was the bedrock. Post his dismissal, the middle order faltered, but Rutherford’s unbeaten 24 off 15 and Forde’s brisk 16 off 8 provided the finishing touches.
Italy’s bowlers, spearheaded by Manenti (2/37) and Calugamage (2/25), deserve credit for keeping West Indies in check. Hassan (1/24) and Draca (1/22) contributed to a disciplined effort.
Already Super 8 qualifiers, West Indies face no pressure. Italy, chasing 166, has a golden chance for an upset that could redefine their campaign.