England pull off a stunning 3-run escape to survive Italy scare in T20 race
England pull off a stunning fightback to reach Super Eights after Italy scare
In a gripping match at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens, cricket fans witnessed one of the most memorable clashes of the tournament as England cricket team survived an unexpected and spirited challenge from Italy national cricket team. The game had everything: a record-breaking fifty, breathtaking catches, bold hitting, and an Italian team that refused to back down. It took a complete team effort for England pull off a stunning escape and secure their place in the T20 World Cup Super Eights.
This was not just another group-stage game. It was a test of temperament, character, and the ability to handle pressure. And while England pull off a stunning win on paper might sound routine, the match itself was anything but.
A blazing start and a new England record
England went in to bat first after Harry Brook won the toss, and the powerplay offered a mix of hope and frustration. At 56-2 after six overs, they had a solid base, but neither opener capitalised. Jos Buttler’s rough patch continued, falling for just three, while Phil Salt’s quick 28 off 15 balls ended too soon when he mistimed a big shot.
Some stability arrived, but everything changed when Will Jacks walked in. From the moment he took guard, he looked determined to shift the momentum. Italy bowled with discipline early, and England stumbled to 105-5, but this was the moment England pull off a stunning recovery began to take shape.
Jacks powered his way to the fastest T20 World Cup fifty ever scored by an England player, reaching the milestone off just 21 balls. This broke Eoin Morgan’s previous record set in 2012. His innings—53 not out off 22 balls—was the backbone England desperately needed.
His partnerships also played a huge role. With Sam Curran, he added 54 runs in just 25 balls, and with Jamie Overton, another 35 off only 16 balls. Thanks to this late surge, England finished at 202-7—their highest total of the tournament. And it was this aggressive finish that helped England pull off a stunning fight later on when Italy’s chase came dangerously close.
Italy’s fearless reply shocks the crowd
Italy, ranked lowest in the tournament, were expected to struggle. Instead, they fought with heart and intent. The chase started shakily as Jofra Archer dismissed two wickets in the very first over. At 22-3, it looked like England pull off a stunning win might come easily.
Then came the moment of brilliance from Jos Buttler—a catch that many are already calling the best of the tournament. Italy captain Harry Manenti ramped Jamie Overton, only for Buttler to leap to his right and snatch a one-handed stunner at full stretch. It was pure athleticism and reminded everyone why he remains one of the world’s most gifted wicketkeepers.
But even after that, Italy did not fold. Instead, they rebuilt with determination as Ben Manenti launched a breathtaking assault, scoring 60 off just 25 balls. His partnership of 92 runs with Justin Mosca changed the entire mood of the stadium. Italy were no longer hopeful underdogs—they were genuine challengers threatening to ruin England pull off a stunning qualification.
Manenti’s knock, filled with six sixes and four boundaries, kept England on edge. When Mosca fell to Rashid and Manenti was caught at long-on, Italy were 135-5, but still in with a chance.
Then came the most dramatic part of the match.
Stewart’s fireworks and Rashid’s nightmare over
Grant Stewart walked in and instantly turned the chase into a thriller. He hammered 45 off 23 balls and showed no fear. The turning point came in Adil Rashid’s final over—the 17th of the innings—where Italy smashed 21 runs, including three towering sixes. In that tense moment, England pull off a stunning comeback was pushed to its limits.
The equation was suddenly down to 30 runs from 21 balls, and Italy looked like they were about to cause the biggest upset of the tournament.
The valiant chase ended with England pull off a stunning victory by 24 runs.
Pressure, mistakes, and steady rescue acts
England’s batting earlier had moments of uncertainty. Jacob Bethell fell for 23, Harry Brook showed a spark with boundaries but could not convert it into something big as he edged behind off JJ Smuts. At 92-4 after 11 overs, the match was hanging in the balance. The middle overs were messy for England, but Jacks’ composure ensured they posted a defendable total.
Just as England pull off a stunning win needed a hero with the bat, it needed discipline with the ball. Archer’s opening spell, Overton’s lines, and Banton’s catches all contributed to keeping England afloat at crucial moments.
England and the Super Eights
With this win, England secure their Super Eights spot, joining West Indies cricket team, South Africa national cricket team, and India national cricket team. But if anything, this match served as a wake-up call.
For England pull off a stunning result in the later stages, they must address their fragile middle order and inconsistent bowling spells. Italy proved that even top teams can be shaken under pressure.
