The "Men in Maroon" are marching into the Super 8s with their heads held high and their record unblemished. On Thursday, the West Indies completed a clinical 42-run victory over tournament debutants Italy at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, ensuring they finish at the top of Group C with four wins from four matches.

While the result may have seemed predictable on paper, the match provided a fascinating glimpse into the depth of West Indian talent and the spirited rise of Italian cricket on the world stage.

Hope Anchors the Innings

After being put in to bat by Italian captain Harry Manenti, the West Indies found the Eden Gardens surface surprisingly tricky. Skyexchange Login Early dismissals of Brandon King (4) and Shimron Hetmyer (1) left the heavyweights stuttering at 12/2.

However, captain Shai Hope proved why he is the tactical spine of this batting lineup. Hope played a masterful, calculated knock, scoring 75 off 46 balls, featuring six boundaries and four sixes. He found able support in Roston Chase (24) and a late-innings cameo from Sherfane Rutherford (24*), pushing the total to a competitive 165/6.

Italy’s bowlers deserve immense credit for their discipline. Crishan Kalugamage was the pick of the attack, finishing with 2/25 and claiming the prized scalp of Hope just as he looked to go into overdrive.

The Shamar Joseph Show

If the first half of the match was about Hope’s bat, the second half belonged entirely to Shamar Joseph. The young pace sensation was everywhere, delivering a rare all-round masterclass in the field. Joseph finished with figures of 4/30 and, remarkably, took four catches—an incredible feat that saw him involved in nearly every major wicket.

Italy's chase began with intent, as Anthony Mosca briefly threatened with two massive sixes off Akeal Hosein. But once Matthew Forde (3/19) and Joseph found their rhythm, the Italian middle order crumbled. Despite a fighting 26 from Ben Manenti, Italy were eventually bundled out for 123 in 18 overs.

Key Match Stats:

  • West Indies: 165/6 (20 overs) - Shai Hope 75, Crishan Kalugamage 2/25.

  • Italy: 123 All Out (18 overs) - Ben Manenti 26, Shamar Joseph 4/30.

  • Player of the Match: Shai Hope

Italy’s Head-Turning Debut

Though their World Cup journey ends here, Italy leaves the tournament with their reputation significantly enhanced. Having already secured a historic 10-wicket win over Nepal earlier in the group stage, they proved they belong at this level.

"I’m really proud of the whole group," said Italian skipper Harry Manenti post-match. "We limited a powerhouse like the West Indies to 165. We just couldn't get the partnerships going today, but we’ve shown the world what we can do."

What’s Next: The Super 8s

The West Indies now join India and South Africa as the only teams to go perfect in the group stages. They head into a formidable Super 8 group alongside India, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.

With their bowling unit firing and Shai Hope in peak form, the two-time champions look like serious contenders to add a third T20 World Cup trophy to their cabinet.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Super 8 stage kicks off on February 21!