Scotland thrash debutants Italy by 73 runs
Chasing a challenging target of 208, Italy were bowled out for 134 in 16.4 overs.
KATHMANDU: Scotland opened their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign in dominant fashion, hammering debutants Italy by 73 runs on Monday at Eden Gardens.
Chasing a challenging target of 208, Italy were bowled out for 134 in 16.4 overs.
Michael Leask starred with the ball for Scotland, claiming four wickets while conceding just 17 runs to dismantle the Italian batting line-up.
Italy’s resistance came mainly from Benche Benetti, who top-scored with 52, but lacked support from the other end as wickets fell regularly.
Earlier, Scotland, who only secured their place in the tournament at the last moment, made full use of the opportunity after being sent in to bat.
They posted a formidable 207 for 4, built on a strong opening partnership.
Opener George Munsey led the charge with a blistering 84 off 54 balls, smashing 13 fours and two sixes.
Fellow opener Michael Jones supported him well, scoring 37 off 30 deliveries. The pair added a solid 126 runs for the first wicket, putting Italy under pressure early.
Brandon McMullen added valuable late runs, remaining unbeaten on 41 to push Scotland past the 200-run mark.
For Italy, Grant Stewart provided a rare highlight by dismissing Munsey and denying him a well-deserved century.
