The group-stage momentum of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 continues as an in-form West Indies side faces Italy in Match 37. While the Caribbean team aim to finish strong before the Super Eight, Italy look to close their campaign with a competitive performance.
Match details
Venue: Eden Gardens
Date: Thursday, February 19
Time: 11:00 AM IST, 10:30 AM PST, 5:30 AM GMT
Team overviews
West Indies
West Indies have already stamped their authority on Group C with three wins from three matches. The two-time champions secured qualification for the Super Eight without needing calculators or favors from other results. They opened their campaign with a convincing 35-run victory over Scotland, followed by a composed 30-run win against England. Their most dominant display came against Nepal, where they chased the target with ease to win by nine wickets.
With six points and a net run rate of 1.820, West Indies sit comfortably at the top of the group. The team has shown balance in all departments, with batters scoring at a healthy pace and bowlers applying consistent pressure through all phases. This final group match offers them a chance to maintain rhythm, test bench strength if required, and head into the Super Eight on a high.
Italy
Italy entered the tournament as underdogs and experienced mixed results in Group C. Their campaign began with a heavy 73-run loss to Scotland, which exposed the gap between associate and established sides at this level. However, Italy responded positively by registering an emphatic 10-wicket win over Nepal, a result that highlighted their ability to dominate when conditions suit them.
Their hopes of qualification ended after a 24-run defeat to England. With two points from three games, Italy no longer remain in contention, but the match against West Indies provides valuable exposure and an opportunity to measure themselves against one of the most dangerous teams in world T20 cricket.
Key players
For West Indies, Shimron Hetmyer has emerged as the batting mainstay. The left-hander has scored 133 runs in three innings, including an unbeaten 64 against Scotland and a fluent 46 not out versus Nepal. His ability to counter both pace and spin makes him a central figure in the middle order.
With the ball, Jason Holder has led from the front. The experienced pacer has taken seven wickets in three innings and has struck at crucial moments, especially during the middle overs. His control with the new ball and at the death gives West Indies a clear edge.
Italy will once again rely on collective contributions rather than individual brilliance. Players like Harry Manenti and JJ Smuts remain vital if Italy want to challenge a strong opposition.
Head-to-head record
This match marks the first-ever T20I meeting between West Indies and Italy. There is no previous head-to-head record between the two sides in this format.
Pitch report
Eden Gardens has hosted four matches in the tournament so far, with an average first-innings score of around 181. Teams batting first have won two of those games. The boundaries remain manageable in size, and the outfield stays quick, rewarding clean stroke play. Batters can expect good value for shots, while bowlers who vary pace and hit the deck hard can still find assistance.
Probable match scenarios
If West Indies bat first, they will likely target a total beyond 185 by attacking early and maintaining pressure through the middle overs. Italy may look to bowl tight lines and rely on discipline to restrict damage. If Italy bat first, they will aim for a steady start and hope their middle order can push them to a competitive score, though West Indies will back their bowling depth to control the game.
Probable playing XIs
West Indies: Brandon King, Shai Hope (wicketkeeper, captain), Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase, Sherfane Rutherford, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, Matthew Forde, Akeal Hosein, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph
Italy: Justin Mosca, Anthony Mosca, JJ Smuts, Harry Manenti (captain), Ben Manenti, Marcus Campopiano, Grant Stewart, Gian Meade (wicketkeeper), Jaspreet Singh, Crishan Kalugamage, Ali Hasan
Live streaming and broadcast
In India, the match will air on JioStar Network Channels, with live streaming available on the JioHotstar app and website. Viewers in Pakistan, the UK, Australia, and global audiences can watch through official ICC broadcast partners and authorized digital platforms in their respective regions.
Match prediction
West Indies enter the contest as clear favorites based on form, squad depth, and experience at the highest level. Italy may show flashes of resistance, but over 40 overs of sustained pressure, West Indies should have enough quality to control the match and secure another comfortable win.
