The 2026 T20 World Cup kicked off with fireworks at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, where West Indies piled on 182 for 5 to challenge Scotland in Group C. Shimron Hetmyer’s explosive 64 – featuring the fastest T20 World Cup fifty by a West Indian (22 balls) – proved the difference-maker.
Scotland’s toss win and bowling choice met resistance from the Caribbean side. Openers laid a platform of 54/1 in 8 overs before quick losses of Hope (19) and King (35) tested resolve.
Powell and Hetmyer then unleashed hell: 81 runs in 37 balls. Powell’s 24 came off 14 aggressive deliveries. Hetmyer continued the assault with Rutherford (36-run stand), smashing six maximums en route to his match-winning knock before holing out at 175/4.
Rutherford’s 26 off 13 provided late impetus, with Shepherd and Forde unbeaten. Currie led Scotland’s attack with 2/23; others shared spoils.
Context adds intrigue: Scotland stepped in after Bangladesh’s ICC boycott, turning this into an underdog tale. West Indies’ total demands perfection from Scotland’s chase – a target blending opportunity and intimidation on a batsman-friendly surface.