England vs Italy: Predicted Playing XI for Both Teams – T20 World Cup 2026 Match 29

England will face Italy in a Group C fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be played on February 16 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

England’s campaign has been a mixed one so far. They edged past Nepal in a tight contest and then suffered a setback against West Indies. They remain in a strong position due to their superior depth and firepower. Italy, meanwhile, have already created history by registering a 10-wicket win over Nepal, though they were comprehensively outplayed by Scotland in their other group fixture.

With Eden Gardens traditionally favouring batting but also rewarding quality spin and smart variations, execution through the middle overs is expected to be decisive.

Also check: Predicted New Zealand Playing XI – T20 World Cup 2026 Match 31

England vs Italy Predicted Playing XI for the T20 World Cup Match 29:

Top Order: Philip Salt, Jos Buttler (WK), Jacob Bethell

Philip Salt has continued his aggressive approach at the top, scoring 30 off 14 against West Indies and providing brisk starts. Jos Buttler brings stability and power, having struck 26 off 17 against Nepal. Jacob Bethell at No.3 has been England’s standout middle-order batter, scoring 55 off 35 against Nepal and 33 off 23 against West Indies, showing maturity against both pace and spin.

Middle Order: Tom Banton, Harry Brook (C), Will Jacks

Tom Banton slots in at No.4 after playing a composed knock of unbeaten 63 off 41 against Scotland, anchoring the chase. Captain Harry Brook at No.5 has led from the front, most notably with 53 off 32 against Nepal, balancing control and acceleration. Will Jacks adds flexibility, capable of attacking spinners and providing a part-time off-spin option.

All-rounders: Sam Curran, Liam Dawson

Sam Curran remains vital to England’s balance, contributing an unbeaten 43 off 30 against West Indies and picking up key wickets across matches notably at death overs. Liam Dawson has been effective in controlling the middle overs, conceding under six an over against Nepal while also adding batting depth.

Bowlers: Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Luke Wood

Jofra Archer leads the pace attack though he struggled in first two matches giving runs at an economy rate of 11.25 and he found his rhythm in the last match against Scotland. Adil Rashid remains England’s primary wicket-taking spinner, claiming three wickets against Scotland and five in total so far. Luke Wood adds pace and bounce, and left arm angle providing England some variation effective on true surfaces like Kolkata.

England T20 World Cup 2026 Squad

Jos Buttler (WK), Harry Brook (C), Philip Salt, Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Jamie Overton, Luke Wood, Josh Tongue, Rehan Ahmed, Ben Duckett

Predicted Italy Playing XI

Top Order: Justin Mosca, Anthony Mosca

The Mosca brothers have been Italy’s biggest positive. Against Nepal, Justin Mosca struck unbeaten 60 off 44, while Anthony Mosca smashed unbeaten 62 off 32, chasing down 124 without loss inside 13 overs.

Middle Order: JJ Smuts, Harry Manenti (C), Ben Manenti, Marcus Campopiano

JJ Smuts adds experience and power while captain Harry Manenti is central to Italy’s structure. Ben Manenti impressed even in defeat with 52 off 31 against Scotland. Campopiano provides stability if early wickets fall.

Wicketkeeper: Gian Meade (WK)

Meade’s keeping was sharp against Nepal and will be tested heavily against England’s aggressive batting.

Bowlers: Crishan Kalugamage, Jaspreet Singh, Ali Hasan, Grant Stewart

Crishan Kalugamage starred against Nepal with three wickets, while Ben Manenti earlier supported with 2 for 9. Jaspreet Singh and Ali Hasan provide pace options, though they will face a stern challenge against England’s depth.

Italy T20 World Cup 2026 Squad

Harry Manenti (C), Gian Meade (WK), Justin Mosca, Anthony Mosca, JJ Smuts, Ben Manenti, Marcus Campopiano, Grant Stewart, Jaspreet Singh, Crishan Kalugamage, Ali Hasan, Wayne Madsen, Thomas Draca, Syed Naqvi, Zain Ali

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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