In a contest that evoked memories of their fierce football rivalry, England narrowly avoided a shocking upset against T20 World Cup debutants Italy at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

Despite a spirited fightback from the Azzurri, the defending champions held their nerve to secure a 24-run victory and book their spot in the Super Eight.

With this win, England finishes the group stage with 6 points from 4 matches, joining the West Indies as the second team to qualify from Group C.

Chasing a formidable target of 203, Italy gave England a serious scare, reaching 178 before being bowled out on the final ball of the 20th over.

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The chase was spearheaded by a blistering knock from Ben Manenti, who smashed 60 off just 25 balls, including 6 sixes. His 92-run partnership with Justin Mosca (43 off 34) threatened to take the game away from the English.

However, the turning point came in the final two overs. Needing 30 runs from 12 balls, Italy faltered against Sam Curran’s disciplined bowling in the 19th over, which conceded just 5 runs and claimed the crucial wicket of Grant Stewart (45 off 23).

Jamie Overton then sealed the deal with a double-wicket maiden in the 20th over.

Earlier, England posted 202 for 7 after opting to bat first. All-rounder Will Jacks provided the late flourish, remaining unbeaten on 53 off just 22 balls as England plundered 78 runs in the final 5 overs.

Italy’s chase began disastrously, losing both openers for just 1 run in Jofra Archer’s opening over.

Despite being reduced to 22 for 3 by the fourth over, the counter-attack led by Manenti and Stewart kept the contest alive until the very end, earning the newcomers respect on the global stage.