KOLKATA: West Indies cricket team topped their group in the opening stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after defeating Italy cricket team by 42 runs at Eden Gardens on Thursday.
After setting a target of 166, the Caribbean side bowled Italy out for 123 in 18 overs, courtesy of an impressive all-round bowling display.
JJ Smuts was the top scorer for Italy with 24 runs off 27 balls, while Anthony Mosca contributed 19 off 12 deliveries. Grant Stewart added 12 runs, but the remaining batters failed to build meaningful partnerships.
Shamar Joseph led the bowling attack with figures of 4 for 30 in four overs. Matthew Forde claimed three wickets, Gudakesh Motie picked up two, and Akeal Hosein took one wicket.
Earlier, West Indies made a cautious start after losing Brandon King early. The side slipped further when Shimron Hetmyer departed cheaply during the powerplay.
Captain and Roston Chase then steadied the innings with a 64-run partnership before Chase was dismissed for 24. Hope anchored the innings with a well-compiled 75 off 46 balls, including six fours and four sixes.
Sherfane Rutherford remained unbeaten on 24, while Matthew Forde added a quick 16 to help West Indies post a competitive total.
For Italy, Ben Manenti and Crishan Kalugamage took two wickets each, while Thomas Draca and Ali Hasan claimed one apiece.