T20 World Cup: England Fend Off Italy's Fightback To Clinch 24-Run Win In Kolkata, Qualify For Super 8

T20 World Cup: Will Jacks' explosive fifty and crucial wicket-stealing abilities proved pivotal in England's narrow victory over Italy as Harry Brook's men secured their spot in the Super 8s in the T20 World Cup with a 24-run win at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Monday.

England's decision to bat first paid off as Will Jacks' explosive, unbeaten 53 off 22 balls propelled them to 202 for 7, their first 200-plus score in the tournament.

Italy's chase was marked by spirited resistance, with Ben Manenti's electrifying 60 off 25 balls and Grant Stewart's late surge, but it ended up on the losing side.

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Italy's Chase

Jofra Archer's blazing opening over, featuring speeds of 146kph, left Italy reeling at 1/2, which further deteriorated to 22/3 within four overs.

Ben Manenti's tempestuous counterassault shifted the game in Italy's favour, as he blazed to a 22-ball fifty, joint-fifth fastest in the tournament and joint-second fastest by an Associate batter in T20 World Cup history.

Manenti unleashed five sixes and four fours to send England's bowlers scrambling. He singled out Jacks, extracting 21 runs in a single over (4, 6, 6, 4).

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Justin Mosca (43 off 34, 7x4) complemented Manenti perfectly. Their partnership yielded a stunning 92 off 48 balls.

But Curran brought an end to the assault, picking two wickets in two balls en route to his triple strike.

England's innings

Jacks' unbeaten knock flared England's late revival from 105/5, with Curran contributing 25 off 19 balls. Their 54-run stand off 25 balls for the sixth wicket proved critical.