Joseph’s Four-Wicket Masterclass Seals Win

In a dominant display at the iconic Eden Gardens, West Indies overwhelmed Italy by 42 runs to conclude their group-stage campaign in the ICC T20 World Cup with a perfect record. Batting first, the Caribbean side posted a competitive 165 for six in their 20 overs, before restricting the European newcomers to 123 all out in 18 overs.

Italy, fresh from a spirited chase against England on the same ground—where they managed 178 chasing 202—entered the match with optimism. However, early breakthroughs by West Indies’ pacer Matthew Ford dismantled the Italian top order. He removed opener Justin Mosca in the second over and shortly after broke the Mosca brothers’ partnership. Spin bowler Aqil Hossen then accounted for Anthony Mosca, who had made 19 from 12 balls, further slowing the Italian momentum. Saeed Nakvi followed two overs later, leaving Italy reeling at 37 for 3 in the powerplay.

Despite needing substantial partnerships to recover, Italy’s middle and lower order failed to build momentum, with no stand surpassing 25 runs. Ben Manenti scored a team-high 26, while the rest struggled to rotate the strike. At 61 for four after ten overs, and with 72 runs required from the last six overs, Italy could not withstand the relentless West Indies attack, ultimately being bowled out for 123.

Shamar Joseph was the star of the match with an exceptional all-round performance. Claiming 4 wickets for just 30 runs, he also took four catches in the field. This feat makes him the first male or female cricketer in international T20 cricket to record four wickets and four catches in a single match. Furthermore, he becomes only the fifth non-wicketkeeper in T20 World Cup history to take four catches in a match, highlighting a remarkable display of athleticism and awareness.

West Indies’ innings had a solid foundation laid by captain Shai Hope, who scored 75 off 46 balls. Rostin Chase and Sherfane Rutherford supported him well, finishing unbeaten on 24 each. The team’s 165 runs were amassed with steady contributions across the innings, despite losing two early wickets.

Match Summary

With this victory, West Indies finished their group stage with four wins from four matches, securing 8 points and topping Group C. Italy, with just a single win and 2 points, ended the tournament at the bottom of the group. Shai Hope was named Player of the Match for his commanding innings that anchored the West Indies’ total.

Joseph’s remarkable four-wicket haul combined with four catches not only sealed victory but also etched his name in T20 World Cup history, providing a performance that will be remembered long after the group stage has concluded.