Italy moved a step closer to securing their maiden appearance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after a thrilling 12-run win over Scotland in the Europe Region Final on July 9. The result at the Sportpark Westvliet in Voorburg Cricket Club, The Hague, leaves Italy at the top of the table heading into their final group match against hosts Netherlands, scheduled on July 11.
This victory has put the Italians firmly in the driver’s seat to clinch one of the qualification spots for the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will be held next year in India and Sri Lanka. With five points from three matches, they now control their own fate.
A win against the Dutch would seal their place in the global tournament. Even in the case of a defeat, Joe Burns’ side has a strong Net Run Rate (NRR) advantage, which could still work in their favour depending on the outcome of the Jersey versus Scotland clash.
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Italy Take Down Scotland, Eye Maiden T20 World Cup Berth
Put in to bat first, Italy made their intentions clear from the outset. Emilio Gay, opening the innings, scored a 21-ball 50 to give the side an explosive start. His aggressive approach allowed the batters that followed to build around the platform he laid.
Later, Grant Stewart provided the finishing touches with an important cameo of 44 runs from just 27 balls that lifted Italy to a total of 167/6 in their 20 overs. The momentum stayed with Italy going into the second innings, although Scotland threatened to turn the tide midway through the chase.
Scotland’s reply began on the back foot. The early dismissals of Oliver James Hairs and Brandon McMullen put them under pressure. But a superb 105-run stand between George Munsey and captain Richie Berrington brought them right back into the contest.
However, Harry Manenti had other ideas. He broke the Munsey-Berrington stand and claimed all of the five wickets in total to derail Scotland’s chase. Scotland could only manage 155/5 in 20 overs, losing by 12 runs.
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Scotland Face Must-Win Test as Italy Eye Historic T20 World Cup Spot
The loss has left Scotland in a tricky spot. They missed out on automatic qualification and now face a must-win test against Jersey.
Italy are just one win away from making history. A strong performance against the Netherlands could see them qualify for the T20 World Cup for the first time.
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