The race for the Super 8 in Group C is heating up as England take on Italy in Match 29 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on February 16 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. The match will start at 3:00 PM IST, with the toss scheduled for 2:30 PM IST.
England come into this game with two wins from three matches and four points. They are currently placed second in the group and a win here will almost confirm their qualification for the Super 8. West Indies are leading the table, while Scotland and Italy are still in the race, making every match crucial.
Italy, on the other hand, have played two matches, winning one against Nepal and losing one earlier. With two points, this is a big opportunity for them to stay alive in the qualification race. While England start as favourites, Italy have already shown they can challenge stronger teams.
Match Details
| Match | England vs Italy, Match 29 |
|---|---|
| Tournament | ICC T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Date | 16 February 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 PM IST (Toss: 2:30 PM) |
| Venue | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| Live Streaming | JioHotstar App & Website |
| TV Broadcast | Star Sports Network |
Group C Scenario
England have four points from three matches and need one more win to secure their place in the Super 8. Their net run rate is slightly negative, so a convincing victory will also help their position.
Italy are placed third with two points from two matches. A win against England will put them in a strong position and keep their qualification hopes alive. With Scotland and Nepal also in the mix, the group remains wide open.
Also see: ENG vs ITA Toss Prediction Match 29th T20 World Cup 2026
ENG vs ITA Head-to-Head (T20Is)
| Matches Played | England Won | Italy Won |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | 0 |
This will be the first-ever T20 International meeting between England and Italy. While there is no past record between the teams, England’s experience and depth give them a clear edge.
Eng vs Italy Pitch Report Today Match
The pitch at Eden Gardens has been good for batting in this tournament. The surface offers true bounce and a fast outfield, allowing batters to play their shots freely. Early in the innings, fast bowlers may get some swing and movement, but conditions usually become easier for batting as the match progresses.
Spinners can get some grip in the middle overs. The average first-innings score at this venue in the tournament has been around 170–180, and totals above 180 are very competitive.
Since this is an afternoon-evening game, dew may play a role later. Teams winning the toss are likely to choose bowling first to take advantage of better chasing conditions.
ENG vs Italy Probable Playing XI
England
Philip Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid.
Italy
Justin Mosca, Anthony Mosca, JJ Smuts, Harry Manenti, Grant Stewart, Gian Meade (wk), Krishan Kalugamage, Thomas Draca, Ali Hasan, Ben Manenti, Wayne Madsen (c).
Also see: ENG vs ITA Dream11 Prediction Today Match 29th
Players to Watch
England:
Harry Brook’s leadership and middle-order batting, Philip Salt’s aggressive starts, Jofra Archer’s pace and Adil Rashid’s experience in the middle overs.
Italy:
JJ Smuts and Grant Stewart bring valuable international experience, while captain Wayne Madsen will be key with the bat. Thomas Draca’s pace could be important if Italy want early breakthroughs.
Match Prediction
England go into the match as strong favourites because of their batting depth, experienced bowling attack and big-match experience. If they bat first and post a total of 180 or more, they will be in a strong position.
Italy, however, will look to create pressure with early wickets and disciplined bowling. An early collapse from England could open the door for an upset.
With Super 8 qualification on the line, this Group C contest promises high-quality cricket and plenty of excitement for fans at Eden Gardens.
