Cricket witnessed a moment of history as Italy qualify for T20 World Cup 2026, marking their maiden appearance at the global stage — a feat achieved in dramatic fashion. Despite losing to the Netherlands in their final game of the Europe Regional Final, Italy advanced on net run-rate, edging out Jersey in a tightly-contested qualification race.

Italy’s path to the T20 World Cup 2026 was anything but straightforward. With five points in the group stage, level with Jersey, the Italians knew they only needed to avoid a heavy defeat to remain in contention. By pushing the Netherlands’ chase into the 16th over, Italy did just enough to protect their run-rate and clinch the final qualification spot.

A gritty batting effort seals the deal as Italy qualify for T20 World Cup 2026

Batting first, Italy stumbled early with both openers dismissed inside three overs. Captain Joe Burns tried to anchor the innings but fell for 22 in the seventh over, leaving Italy reeling at 41 for 3. A quick middle-order collapse followed, and it was Ben Manenti who rescued the innings. He struck a vital knock alongside Grant Stewart and Anthony Mosca, steering Italy to 134 for 7.

That target may not have troubled the Netherlands, but it was a competitive enough total to keep Italy’s hopes alive. Left-arm spinner Roelof van der Merwe starred for the Dutch with figures of 3 for 15, including the prized wicket of Burns.

The Netherlands chased down the target with ease, riding on an explosive 66-run powerplay led by Max O’Dowd and Michael Levitt. Their opening stand of 71 set the tone before O’Dowd and Scott Edwards guided the Dutch to a comfortable win. But by then, Italy had already sealed their spot at the T20 World Cup 2026.

Scotland crash out, Jersey fall short

Earlier in the day, Scotland’s shock loss to Jersey eliminated them from contention, ending their run of four consecutive T20 World Cup appearances. Jersey’s one-wicket win kept their hopes alive momentarily, but Italy’s superior net run-rate shut the door.

With Italy and the Netherlands joining 13 other nations, 15 teams have now qualified for the 2026 tournament in India and Sri Lanka. Three more teams will qualify from East-Asia Pacific, and two from Africa.

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