The T20 World Cup Group C: England, Scotland, West Indies, Nepal and debutants Italy assessed
We take a closer look at the teams in Group C of the T20 World Cup, which is live on Sky Sports from February 7 to March 8. Here's a breakdown of England, Scotland, West Indies, Nepal, and the newcomers, Italy.
England
- Best Result: Champions (2010, 2022)
- 2024 Result: Lost to India in the semi-finals
- 2026 Qualification: Through performance at the last T20 World Cup
- Head Coach: Brendon McCullum
The English squad is stacked with talent, led by captain Harry Brook and an impressive batting lineup. Jos Buttler and Phil Salt form a potent opening duo, with Buttler being England's greatest white-ball batter ever. The middle order is bolstered by players like Jacob Bethell and Sam Curran. In terms of bowling, Adil Rashid's leg-spin mastery and Jofra Archer's varied seam attack provide a strong foundation. However, the Ashes campaign this winter was a disappointment, and the T20 World Cup offers a chance for redemption.
Round-one fixtures:
- vs. Nepal (February 8, Mumbai)
- vs. West Indies (February 11, Mumbai)
- vs. Scotland (February 14, Kolkata)
- vs. Italy (February 16, Kolkata)
Scotland
- Best Result: Super 12s (2021)
- 2024 Result: Lost in the round of 16
- 2026 Qualification: Replaced Bangladesh after the Asian side refused to play in India
- Head Coach: Owen Dawkins
Scotland's journey to the 2026 World Cup has been an intriguing one. They finished fourth in the European Qualifier, behind the Netherlands, Italy, and Jersey, with limited preparation time after taking Bangladesh's spot. The squad includes experienced players like Richie Berrington and Tom Bruce, joined by newcomers like Afghanistan-born seamer Zainullah Ihsan. Mark Watt, a left-arm spinner, adds variety to their bowling attack. Scotland will look to make an impact in the Super 8s.
Round-one fixtures:
- vs. West Indies (February 7, Kolkata)
- vs. Italy (February 9, Kolkata)
- vs. England (February 14, Kolkata)
- vs. Nepal (February 17, Mumbai)
West Indies
- Best Result: Champions (2012, 2016)
- 2024 Result: Knocked out in the Super 8s
- 2026 Qualification: Through performance at the last T20 World Cup
- Head Coach: Daren Sammy
The West Indies, despite recent struggles, should not be underestimated. They have a strong batting lineup with players like Shai Hope and Sherfane Rutherford, who excel at clearing the ropes. The bowling attack features the effervescent fast bowler Shamar Joseph and left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein. The team will look to capitalize on their T20 prowess and make a deep run in the tournament.
Round-one fixtures:
- vs. Scotland (February 7, Kolkata)
- vs. England (February 11, Mumbai)
- vs. Nepal (February 15, Mumbai)
- vs. Italy (February 19, Kolkata)
Italy
- Best Result: Never played in the tournament before
- 2024 Result: N/A
- 2026 Qualification: Came through the Europe Qualifier
- Head Coach: John Davison
Italy makes its T20 World Cup debut, led by captain Wayne Madsen. The squad includes players like Ben Manenti and Harry Manenti, who have experience in the Australian Big Bash League. The team has an Australian flavor, with ex-South Africa all-rounder JJ Smuts also in the squad. Italy will look to make a statement in its first appearance on the global stage.
Round-one fixtures:
- vs. Scotland (February 9, Kolkata)
- vs. Nepal (February 12, Mumbai)
- vs. England (February 16, Kolkata)
- vs. West Indies (February 19, Kolkata)
Nepal
- Best Result: Round one (2014, 2024)
- 2024 Result: Knocked out in the round of 16
- 2026 Qualification: Came through the Asia-Pacific Regional Final
- Head Coach: Stuart Law
Nepal is considered a rising force in international cricket. They proved their mettle with a narrow one-run loss to South Africa. The squad includes captain Rohit Paudel, spin bowler Sandeep Lamichhane, and opener Kushal Bhurtel. Nepal's success in the qualifying competition and their recent T20 series win over the West Indies showcase their potential. They will look to make a strong showing in the main tournament.
Round-one fixtures:
- vs. England (February 8, Mumbai)
- vs. Italy (February 12, Mumbai)
- vs. West Indies (February 15, Mumbai)
- vs. Scotland (February 17, Mumbai)
