Captain Harry Brook’s men started steadily. Jos Buttler and Phil Salt raced to 21 in 2.1 overs before Buttler nicked one for 3. Salt exploded next, blasting 28 off 15 (2×4, 2×6) in tandem with Jacob Bethell’s 23, forging a 33-run stand. Momentum swung wildly as wickets tumbled to 105/5.

Rescue came via Will Jacks’ explosive half-century. His 53* off 22 balls – pounding 4 sixes and 3 boundaries – ignited the innings. With Sam Curran (25 off 19, 2×6), they plundered 54 in 25 balls. Jacks then teamed with Jamie Overton (15*) for 35 more, ensuring a formidable finish.

Italy’s attack was led by Grant Stewart and Krishan Kalugamage (2/ each), supported by single scalps from JJ Smuts, Ali Hassan, and Ben Manenti. Playing elevens: England – Salt, Buttler (wk), Bethell, Banton, Brook (c), Curran, Jacks, Overton, Dawson, Archer, Rashid. Italy – J. Mosca, A. Mosca, Smuts, H. Manenti (c), B. Manenti, Campopiano, Stewart, Meade (wk), Singh, Kalugamage, Hassan.

England’s depth shone through collapses and comebacks alike. Italy now stares down a steep climb. Will their batsmen rise to the occasion, or will England’s bowlers defend with fire? Stay tuned for the chase.