West Indies have made it four wins from as many matches in the T20 World Cup group stage, defeating a gallant Italy by 42 runs in Kolkata
West Indies have completed the T20 World Cup group stage undefeated after dismissing Italy for 123 and winning by 42 runs in Kolkata.
The Italians finished their maiden campaign with plaudits after stunning Nepal and losing to England narrowly, Scotland and West Indies.
Both teams struggled on what appeared to be a good batting pitch at Eden Gardens on Thursday.
West Indies captain Shai Hope starred with 75 off 46 balls, his second straight World Cup half-century, and the next best score was Ben Manenti’s 26 for Italy.
“We haven’t played the perfect game despite showing promise in moments,” Italy captain Harry Manenti said.
“It’s important for all associate nations to be funded and well looked after, which is tough. If we keep getting support from the ICC, if we get more cricket, we’ll get more competitive. Lack of games have hurt us (but) the more we play the higher are the chances to close out games like this.”
After West Indies made a sub-par 165, Italy lost three wickets in the powerplay thanks to medium-pacer Matthew Forde.
Pacer Shamar Joseph limited the Europeans in the middle and death overs with 4-30, and also took four catches.
Hope kept West Indies from floundering, opening the batting and hitting four sixes and six boundaries until he was bowled by Crishan Kalugamage in the 16th over.
In the Super Eights, they will face 2024 champions India, 2024 runners-up South Africa and Zimbabwe, who knocked out Australia.
“We’ll have to find ways to be more forceful when the crunch time comes,” Hope said.
“We have batting depth but we need to be smart. Need to be clinical with strokeplay. Need to capitalise on deliveries. (We’re) in good shape going into the Super Eights.”
