England secured their place in the Super Eights of the T20 World Cup on Monday after surviving a scare from Italy, while Afghanistan kept their slim chances alive with a five-wicket win over the United Arab Emirates in New Delhi.
South Africa also sealed their Super Eights spot without playing as Afghanistan’s win over UAE ensured their qualification.
In Kolkata, England posted 202-7, their highest total of the tournament, before Italy’s valiant chase of 203 fell short by 24 runs in a thrilling match at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
England’s innings was powered by Will Jacks, who smashed the fastest T20 World Cup fifty for England, scoring 53 not out off 22 balls.
After a shaky start at 56-2 in the powerplay and 92-4 after 11 overs, Jacks took charge with two crucial partnerships: 54 off 25 balls with Sam Curran (25) and 35 off 16 balls with Jamie Overton (15). His fourth six not only brought up his fifty in 21 balls but also pushed England past the 200-run mark for the first time in the tournament.
Phil Salt and Jacob Bethell provided early impetus but fell attempting big shots, while Harry Brook contributed with a four and a six before departing.
Italy’s chase began disastrously, losing three wickets for just 22 runs, but captain Harry Manenti and Ben Manenti revived the innings. Ben blazed a 25-ball 60, smashing six sixes and four fours in a 92-run stand with Justin Mosca.
Grant Stewart and Jaspreet Singh further threatened England with 21 off Rashid’s final over, leaving 30 needed off 21 balls. Yet, England held their nerve as Italy were bowled out for 178 on the final ball. Jos Buttler pulled off a stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Jamie Overton, highlighting the thrilling contest.
Meanwhile in New Delhi, Afghanistan chased 162-5 to register their first victory, with Azmatullah Omarzai starring with both bat and ball against UAE’s 160-9.
Chasing 161 for victory, Azmatullah Omarzai scored an unbeaten 40 and took 4-15 to lead Afghanistan to a tense five-wicket win over UAE with four balls to spare.
Sohaib Khan had top-scored for UAE with 68, putting on an 84-run third-wicket stand with Alishan Sharafu (40), but Omarzai’s composure steered Afghanistan past the line.
The win leaves Afghanistan reliant on a strong performance against Canada in their final group match and other results to advance.
With England, West Indies, South Africa, and India already through, the Super Eights are beginning to take shape, while Afghanistan and New Zealand fight for the remaining spots.
