Italy set for T20 World Cup debut against Scotland

Italy Set to Make World Cup Debut in Cricket

Italy’s national cricket team will make its debut at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The country has been included in the tournament after finishing second in the European qualification last July. Italy secured their spot with a 12-run victory over Scotland, which was considered one of the most successful second-tier nations.

The team will be led by captain Wayne Madsen, a South African-born batter with extensive experience in first-class cricket. Other notable players include leg spinner Crishan Kalugamage, who moved to Italy from Sri Lanka at the age of 15, and all-rounder Harry Manenti, who played for Australia’s Big Bash League.

Italy will join Scotland, Nepal, West Indies, and England in Group C of the 16-team tournament. The team’s coach, Kevin O’Brien, has set his sights on reaching the knockout stage and is confident in the squad’s abilities. “We’re targeting to win games and ultimately want to qualify from the group,” he said.

The 15-player squad includes players from Australia, South Africa, and England who have Italian heritage through relatives. The team will face Scotland in their debut match on Monday in Kolkata, India.

Source: Al Jazeera