Italy World Cup debut ends with big defeat against Scotland

Tuesday, 10 February 2026 03:35 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Italy’s Benjamin Manenti leaves the ground after losing his wicket

Italy’s 45-year wait ended in a disappointing 73-run defeat against Scotland at the T20 World Cup yesterday, with Captain Wayne Madsen dislocating his shoulder inside the first six overs of Group C game.

Italy, where the sport’s national federation was formed in 1980, crashed to 137 all out in 16.4 overs as Madsen didn’t take further part in the historic game after damaging his left shoulder while attempting a catch at mid-wicket.

There was some silver lining in Italy’s maiden appearance in a major global tournament when Benjamin Manenti scored 52 off 31. Benjamin and his brother Harry (37) briefly threatened the tall target with a 73-run stand before both fell in successive overs and Italy lost the last six wickets for 21 runs.

Opening batter George Munsey’s blazing knock of 84 off 54 balls, which featured 13 fours and two sixes, had led Scotland to 207-4 — the highest-ever total by an associate nation in the tournament — after Madsen won the toss and elected to chase.

“I imagine everyone will be flat in the dressing room and disappointed,” Vice-Captain Harry Manenti said. “We wanted to show the world what we have. We get another chance in a few days’ time and hopefully we can bounce back.” – (AP)