England Survive Another Scare, Beat Italy by 24 Runs, Afghanistan beat UAE in T20IWC
Two-time champions England narrowly avoided another major upset in the T20 World Cup 2026 as they edged past a fighting Italy by 24 runs. After escaping defeat against Nepal off the very last ball in their opening match, England once again found themselves in deep trouble, but Sam Curran’s brilliance in the death overs helped them save face. With this win, Harry Brook’s side registered their third victory and booked a place in the Super 8 stage. At the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, England looked set for a big total after choosing to bat first. However, Italy’s bowlers kept them under pressure throughout the innings. Phil Salt (28) gave England a quick start, but Jos Buttler (3) continued his poor run. Once Salt was dismissed, England lost wickets regularly and were reduced to 105 for 5, with captain Harry Brook also back in the pavilion. Sam Curran and Will Jacks then steadied the innings with a crucial partnership, taking England past 150. Even after Curran’s dismissal, Jacks contin...