England are predicted to win this England vs Italy match prediction with a 53% win probability, largely due to their superior squad depth and recent winning momentum at Eden Gardens. On a batting-friendly surface, ENG’s power-packed top order and experienced spin attack give them a slight tactical edge. This preview covers pitch report insights, expected playing XI combinations, key matchups, and fantasy cricket tips for the 29th Match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
England vs Italy Match Details
Match | England vs Italy | 29th Match | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 |
|---|---|
Date | 16/02/2026 (Monday) |
Time | BDT 3:30 PM / PKT 2:30 PM / INR 3:00 PM |
Format | T20 |
Venue | Eden Gardens |
Recent performance | England – W W W L W, Italy – L L W L W |
Live Streaming Details | Click here to watch the ENG vs ITA Live Stream on Sports Live Hub (SLH) |
Eden Gardens Pitch Report
Eden Gardens
The Eden Gardens Pitch Report suggests another high-scoring contest. The surface has offered true bounce and consistent carry, allowing batters to trust the strokeplay. With a lightning-fast outfield, even mishits travel. In this ENG vs ITA preview, expect a 190+ first-innings benchmark to feel competitive, especially if the team batting first maximizes the powerplay. Spinners may struggle later if dew appears.
Weather Report
The Weather Report indicates sunny and pleasant conditions, with daytime temperatures hovering between 32°C and 33°C before cooling to 18°C–19°C at night. Humidity levels rising toward 47%–64% could introduce moderate dew in the second innings. In this ENG vs ITA prediction context, chasing sides may benefit as the ball skids on, making grip difficult for spinners like Adil Rashid or Crishan Kalugamage.
ENG vs ITA Head-to-Head Records
England and Italy have never played a T20I before, making their February 16, 2026 ICC World Cup Match 29 a historic first-ever fixture.
England vs Italy Team Preview & Squads
England
Harry Brook leads a confident England unit into this England vs Italy match prediction. His proactive captaincy and aggressive intent align perfectly with T20 demands. The recent win over Scotland at Eden Gardens, where England chased 153 with 10 balls to spare, underlines their composure in crunch moments.
The batting structure looks formidable. Tom Banton’s unbeaten 63* in the last game showed control and acceleration, precisely what this batting-friendly surface rewards. Support from Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, and Ben Duckett ensures England can maintain tempo across phases. If ENG post 200+, it will likely be built on fearless powerplay batting.
Bowling-wise, Jofra Archer’s impact remains decisive, while Adil Rashid offers middle-over control. Sam Curran’s all-round value adds flexibility in the playing XI. England’s tactical advantage lies in variety, pace, wrist-spin, and seam-bowling depth.
England Squads:
England
Harry Brook, Jofra Archer, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Rehan Ahmed, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood
Italy
Wayne Madsen captains an Italian side riding confidence after a dominant 10-wicket win over Nepal. In this England vs Italy preview, Italy’s belief stems from their clinical chase of 124 inside 13 overs, a sign of efficiency and clarity.
Anthony Mosca and Wayne Madsen anchor the batting lineup. Their ability to rotate strike before accelerating will be critical against England’s varied bowling attack. Italy’s predicted 185+ total suggests they won’t shy away from aggressive intent.
Crishan Kalugamage, fresh off a 3/18 performance, will be central to Italy’s bowling strategy. JJ Smuts provides balance as an all-rounder, but the key tactical battle lies in whether Italy’s bowlers can contain England’s top order during the powerplay.
Italy Squads
Italy
Wayne Madsen, Ali Hasan, Marcus Campopiano, Thomas Draca, Jaspreet Singh, Crishan Kalugamage, Harry Manenti, Ben Manenti, Gian-Piero Meade, Anthony Mosca, Justin Mosca, JJ Smuts, Grant Stewart, Syed Naqvi, Zain Ali
ENG vs ITA Prediction
Event | England | Italy |
|---|---|---|
Toss Winner | England | – |
Player of the Match | Tom Banton | – |
Top Run Scorer | Tom Banton | Wayne Madsen |
Top Wicket Taker | Jofra Archer | Gareth Berg |
Most Sixes | Tom Banton | Wayne Madsen |
Predicted Score | 200+ | 185+ |
Win Probability | 53% | 47% |
England vs Italy Winning Prediction
England remain the predicted winner in this England vs Italy match prediction with a 53% edge due to their explosive top order and bowling versatility suited to Eden Gardens conditions. If Banton fires again and Archer strikes early, ENG should control the tempo. But can Italy’s fearless approach tilt this near-even contest? For more expert previews, tactical breakdowns, and fantasy insights, follow JeetBuzz for the latest stats and World Cup analysis.
FAQ: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 29th Match
- What time does the England vs Italy match start?
The match begins at 3:00 PM IST on February 16, 2026.
- Where is the ENG vs ITA 29th Match being played?
It will be held at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
- Who is predicted to be Player of the Match in ENG vs ITA?
Tom Banton is predicted to be the Player of the Match.
