Kolkata witnessed a spectacle on Monday as Italy, though defeated by England in T20 World Cup 2026 Match 29, claimed a remarkable record. Facing 203 to win, Italy unleashed 13 sixes en route to 178 all out, securing joint second spot for Associate teams’ most sixes in a T20 World Cup innings.
The fireworks came from Ben Manenti (6 sixes) and Grant Stewart (5 sixes), with skipper Harry Manenti and Jasprit Singh adding one each. This power-hitting marked Italy’s bold statement in the tournament.
England’s innings was anchored by Will Jacks’ explosive 53* (22 balls, 4×6, 3×4), supported by Tom Banton’s 30, Phil Salt’s 28, and Sam Curran’s 25, closing at 202/7.
Italy’s reply saw Ben Manenti blaze 60 (25 balls, 10 boundaries), Grant Stewart hammer 45 (23 balls), and Justin Mosca contribute 43. The effort, though falling short by 25 runs, highlighted their potential.
Records-wise, Netherlands lead with 19 sixes vs Ireland (2014), followed by Italy and USA (13 each), and Scotland (12 vs Australia, 2024). Italy’s performance underscores the evolving dynamics of T20 cricket, where underdogs are increasingly threatening the giants.