Overview:
In the Super Eights, the West Indies will face 2024 champion India, 2024 runner-up South Africa, and Zimbabwe, which knocked out Australia.
KOLKATA, India (AP) — West Indies completed the T20 World Cup group stage undefeated after dismissing Italy for 123 and winning by 42 runs on Thursday.
Italy finished its maiden World Cup appearance with plaudits after stunning Nepal and losing to England narrowly, Scotland and the West Indies.
Both teams struggled on what appeared to be a good batting pitch at Eden Gardens.
West Indies captain Shai Hope starred with 75 off 46 balls, his second straight World Cup half-century, and the next best score was Ben Manenti’s 26 for Italy.
West Indies defended a sub-par 165. Italy lost three wickets in the powerplay thanks to medium-pacer Matthew Forde, and pacer Shamar Joseph limited Italy in the middle and death overs with 4-30. Joseph also took four catches.
Hope kept the West Indies from floundering, opening the batting and hitting four sixes and six boundaries until he was bowled by Crishan Kalugamage in the 16th over.
In the Super Eights, the West Indies will face 2024 champion India, 2024 runner-up South Africa, and Zimbabwe, which knocked out Australia.
“We’ll have to find ways to be more forceful when the crunch time comes,” Hope said. “We have batting depth but we need to be smart. Need to be clinical with strokeplay. Need to capitalize on deliveries. (We’re) in good shape going into the Super Eights.”
Italy captain Harry Manenti said he was proud of their ability to stay in the fight, notably against full members England and the West Indies.
“We haven’t played the perfect game despite showing promise in moments,” Manenti said. “It’s important for all associate nations to be funded and well looked after, which is tough. If we keep getting support from the ICC, if we get more cricket, we’ll get more competitive. Lack of games have hurt us (but) the more we play the higher are the chances to close out games like this.”