New Delhi: Italy, known for its rich football legacy, made its mark on cricket’s biggest stage, with a historic win in its maiden T20 World Cup campaign. The debutants scripted history by registering a landmark win against a much-fancied Nepal, who came so close to beating two-time champions England recently.
The Italians, who started their campaign with a disheartening 73-loss to Scotland, bounced back strongly to produce a complete performance against a strong Nepal side in a Group C match at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.
On a red-letter day, Italy comprehensively beat Nepal by 10 wickets to register the biggest win in their cricket history.
After bowling out Nepal for 123 in 19.3 overs, Italy cantered to win courtesy of an unbeaten 124-run stand between Justin Mosca and Anthony Mosca.
The Mosca brothers, who were aggressive right from the word, finished with unbeaten half-centuries. The dashing duo didn’t allow the Nepalese bowling line-up to settle and dominated every phase of the game to help Italy cross the line in just 12.4 overs.
Earlier, leg-spinner Crishan Kalugamage picked up three wickets, including that of captain Rohit Pauel and the seasoned Dipendra Singh Airee, while off-spinner Benjamin Manenti claimed 2/9 in his four overs as Italy restricted Nepal to a below-par total after opting to bowl first in Mumbai.
Set 124 to win, the Mosca brothers set the tone with 68/0 in six overs.
(More to follow)