The Highlight of 2025 in Cricket was Italy. They had very little chances of qualification before the qualifiers began and Scotland were the heavy favourites. But Italy defied all odds to secure a spot for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, to be held next year in India and Sri Lanka. In the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier 2025 event, the Joe Burns-led Italy side registered wins over Guernsey and Scotland to secure qualification. This is the first time ever Italy has qualified for the world event.
Let us look at their journey as we approach the end of the year
1. Italy Beat Guernsey by seven wickets
Guernsey suffered a heavy seven-wicket loss to Italy in their opening game in the European T20 World Cup qualifiers. While playing in the final round of qualification for the first time, Guernsey struggled with the bat as they were restricted to 122-9. Italy chased down the target of 127-3 in just 14 overs as opener Justin Mosca scored 66 not out.
2. Match abandoned against Jersey
Italy had their match against Jersey abandoned due to rain. This put them in a tricky position as they would have hoped some points from this game before facing the tougher sides in the coming games.
3. Italy Beat Scotland by 12 runs
In a biggest shocks of the even, Italy beat Scotland by 12 runs. This win ensured their qualification for the world event. Italy captain Joe Burns won the toss and decided to bat, Italy posted 167-6 from their 20 overs thanks to a blistering 50 off 21 balls from Emilio Gay. In reply, Scotland were restricted to 155 and the 32nd ranked Italy sprung a surprise.
Italy captain Joe Burns said it feels “very surreal” after his side took a major step towards qualifying for their first T20 World Cup with a surprise 12-run victory over Scotland.
4. Italy Lost to Netherlands by nine wickets
In their final group stage match, Italy suffered a defeat to Netherlands. However this result did not effect their qualification. Italy made 135 and the Netherlands chased down the target by 9 wickets in quick time. Despite losing the match the celebrations from Italy campaign was a sight to behold as they qualified for WT20 next year.
Men 2026 WT20 Groups:
Group A: India, Pakistan, USA, Netherlands, Namibia
Group B: Australia, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Zimbabwe, Oman
Group C: England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Nepal, Italy
Group D: New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan, Canada, UAE
The tournament will run from 7 February to 8 March, with three matches per day across the group stage, and is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The World Cup in 2026 will feature 20 teams, which includes hosts India and Sri Lanka.
