Skipper Shai Hope’s impressive form continued as he scored 75 runs, leading West Indies to a total of 165/6 against Italy in the final Group C match of the T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens. Despite an early setback with opener Brendon King’s dismissal for just 4 runs, Hope’s aggressive batting, including four boundaries and a six, stabilized the innings.
Hope, after losing his opening partner early, built a crucial 64-run partnership with Roston Chase (24), propelling West Indies close to the three-figure mark by the 12th over. The Windies captain, Hope, accelerated the scoring with his attacking play against the spinners, while Chase provided valuable support by rotating the strike effectively.
In a display of resilience, Hope reached his fifty off just 28 balls and continued to dominate the Italian bowling attack even after losing Chase. However, Italy fought back strongly, claiming quick wickets in the middle overs. Despite Hope’s brilliant knock comprising four sixes and six boundaries, he was eventually dismissed after scoring 75 runs.
As the innings progressed, all-rounder Jason Holder and the lower order batsmen contributed with useful cameos, with Sherfane Rutherford scoring 24 off 15 balls and Matthew Forde adding 16 off 8 deliveries. Italy’s bowlers, particularly Manenti and Kalugamage, stood out by taking crucial wickets, limiting West Indies to 165/6 in their allotted 20 overs.
